6 BENEFITS OF NATURE ON YOUR WELLBEING
“There is no Wi-Fi in the forest, but I promise you will find a better connection.” ~ Ralph Smart
At Balance + Glo we understand how nature is a powerful tool for our wellbeing. Being in nature has so many benefits that it just can’t go without being a fundamental part of what we focus on with our Balance + Glo members.
Being here on the Isle of Wight has only served to highlight the power of nature and the environment around us. The Isle of Wight has dramatic coastline, countryside, forest and of course the sea - we are immersed and entwined with nature on a daily basis (with some of us moving to the Isle of Wight just to be closer to nature itself!).
Getting out and observing nature has huge benefits to our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing and this is why we have added a Nature pillar as our fourth wellbeing sphere. Nature now sits alongside Movement, Nourishment and Care.
HERE ARE SIX BENEFITS TO IMMERSING YOURSELF IN NATURE:
IMPROVE QUALITY OF REST
Getting out in nature can help get better rest. Being exposed to daylight early on in the day can boost the circadian rhythm and help promote a better night’s sleep.
2. IMPROVE PHYSICAL HEALTH
Being in nature can contribute to our physical wellbeing by reducing blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension. This is particularly true when its active participation in nature such as gardening, swimming, hiking or running.
3. SLOWING A BUSY MIND
Being in nature and taking time to look at your surroundings can slow a busy mind. We find nature inherently interesting and we can easily focus on what we are experiencing. This can provide a respite for our overactive minds and bring us back to the present moment.
4. REDUCE THE FEELING OF STRESS AND ANXIETY
Being in nature can reduce the sensations of stress and anxiety. A study by researchers in California in 2001 found that a healing garden at a children’s hospital in California had positive effects on users, with 54% reporting they were more relaxed and less stressed, 24% refreshed and rejuvenated, 18% more positive and able to cope, and only 10% having no difference in mood.
5. CREATE CONNECTION
Being in nature connects us to each other and the larger world. Spending time with wildlife, plant life and other people in nature reminds us that we are all here on this planet together and a sense of belonging is positively associated with increased wellbeing.
6. IT OFFERS A NATURAL RHYTHM
Nature gives us a natural rhythm we can choose to follow, as we are connected. The seasons provide a rhythm to our energy. It can be hard to completely observe this in our modern society but being conscious of it can help us understand why we might be wanting to slow down and reconnect with loved ones in winter, be full of renewed creative energy in Spring, sociable and active in summer, wanting to take stock, reorganise and let go in autumn.
Balance + Glo Co-Founder Jenny says,
“For me, being in nature has a calming effect. Walking on the beach, swimming in the sea, walking the hills and watching the sunset is just magical. Moving here to be closer to the sea, I’ve learned how important being outdoors in nature truly can be - helping me cope with big life changes, giving me perspective and helping me thrive. We believe including Nature to our existing wellbeing pillars will support our members in leading a happier, healthier and more balanced approach to life.”
There have been many ways we have already been looking at nature as an important part of what we deliver here at Balance + Glo, we have previously explored the five elements of nature in yoga and our instructors have offered their favourite Isle of Wight walks.
“A walk in nature walks the soul back home.” ~ Mary Davis
