Taking Refuge in Nature

Sequoia Trees and the Forest

Spend a moment gazing at the forest, the trees, the fauna, the ferns, the light coming from above...

Nature is such a relief to immerse yourself in. If you have a chance, spend time in nature. If you live in the city, take a day trip. If you cannot easily break away, then go to a local park and just gaze at the plants. The greenery relieves our eyes that are so often glued to the computer monitor or t.v.

Some people like to listen to the sounds of nature as they fall asleep. You can listen to your smartphone, ipad or tablet, or other device to the sounds of nature. There are many you-tube videos you can search for. Water is particularly soothing for some.

Yet the day trip is invaluable. Actually spending time listening to the forest in person is a wonderful experience. Since I live in a rural area, I take a moment out of my busy day just to stand on my deck and listen. Sometimes, in the morning before work, as I head to my car, I stop a moment and look up at the trees, listen to the birds, and consciously take a moment to look at the sky and clouds. It reminds me of that place beyond the mental turmoil of the work world with its busy-ness.

So coping with stress, anxiety, depression and all the other things that afflict our mind and emotions can be helped by spending time in Nature. Nature is a great teacher, a guide, and a soothing relief to our overtaxed minds and bodies. Honor her, and honor yourself. Give yourself the gift of the first step to being free from what the Dalai Lama calls, "the afflictive emotions."

#depression #stress #forest #sequoia #murphys #spirituality