Today, it has become increasingly difficult to go through life without worries. When we feel depressed, we buy a treat or a drink to feel better. When we are stressed, we occupy our minds with anything and everything, just as long as we don’t think about it. When we are angry, we ruminate on our thoughts in a vicious cycle. But… Why do we never think of reconnecting with our old friend, nature?
Who is she?
According to the CNRTL (French National Centre for Textual and Lexical Resources), nature is a specific terrestrial environment defined by climate, relief, soil, water, and vegetation.
We could add to this definition the absence of human intervention in its conception or maintenance. We can also consider green spaces entirely created by humans as nature, even if they are managed and under control.
We also speak of the existing life in these natural places, other than humans, such as animals, insects, plants, etc.
What is nature for?
Nature is the source of all life on Earth; that is already a beautiful function. But if we look further, nature feeds us, shelters us, and provides practically everything. All our resources come from it. Yet, we rarely think of its simplest function: to soothe us, to heal our pains. Even today, we underestimate the benefits of the environment on human health. We pave everything, cutting off all access to nature in favor of roads and buildings.
To get a general idea, in Thessaloniki, green spaces per inhabitant are among the lowest in Europe (far below than the 15 m² recommended by the WHO). Yet, nature is the solution to many problems (well, it might not pay our taxes for us!).
Nature as therapy
South Korea and Japan have understood this for some time now: simply visualizing a forest environment and relaxation exercises are valuable tools for mental health.
Studies conducted all over the world tend to demonstrate that contact with a natural environment reduces stress and anxiety, decreases depressive symptoms, and especially mental rumination. And these effects can even last for several days after exposure to nature.
Facing the growing demand for these therapies combining nature and humans, the environment is increasingly considered for its curative function.
We are even starting to think further: what if nature directly impacted the health of our bodies, not just our minds?
So why not prioritize more green spaces?
Plan parks accessible to everyone, offering greenery, shade, freshness, and more pleasant air. These are places of meeting and sharing: they are essential for our health. Our cities need developments adapted to our needs.
What to do when you have no choice?
It is true that access to nature is more difficult for some than for others; urban areas are the most affected by this disconnection.
We can fix this!
In the meantime, why not dedicate yourself to some relaxing activities? Wear headphones with nature sounds (or not), close your eyes, and visualize the place of your choice. Breathe, move, or sleep; you can even dance. Another option: watch a documentary or a film about nature; that works too!
My favorite exercise
I light some incense, I sit cross-legged on a comfortable cushion, and I breathe.
I focus to avoid thinking (it can take time to master this)
I let time flow as I wish. The goal is not to be rushed by anything, to let go.
It is a moment for you, and if you need to release emotions, do so.
At the end of these exercises, you will always feel recharged, even if you are cut off from nature daily.
They will become almost indispensable for your serenity.
Do not hesitate to talk about it around you, and perhaps even organize group outings in nature to recharge together!
Written by Clara Deltour
