There is growing research suggesting spending time in nature promotes many things including:
- Self discipline
- Creativity
- Physical fitness
- Engagement in learning
- Improved social connection
In children, it helps their intellectual, emotional, social and physical development.
Natures Benefits
“In every walk in nature, one receives more than he seeks.” – John Muir
Nature has unseen positive effects on our bodies. It is energy, mood and immune boosting. The fresh air reawakens our brains, it reduces stress by lowering cortisol and blood pressure. And did you know, trees give off ‘phytoncides’ which are beneficial to our nervous system.
Phytoncides have antibacterial and antifungal qualities which help plants fight disease. When we breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of white blood cells, helping kill viris infected cells in our bodies.
Add Mindfulness
Walking Meditation
This can be done anytime while walking or if in a crisis, you can walk back and forth using the same technique.
- Talk your time with each step.
- Notice your feet as they hit the ground and rise again.
- Notice the sensations you feel in your legs, thighs, knees, calves and ankles.
- Follow all the sensations you can.
- Notice how you feel
Another technique that is useful during a panic or anxiety attack, known as the 5 senses:
- Find, notice and name
- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can hear
- 3 things you can feel
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste
How Photography Can Help
As a constant overthinker, photography teaches me to pause, notice and capture those often unnoticed simple pleasures of life. It is a reminder to saviour the beauty of life. From there I can reflect on underlying themes in my photography. I can journal and build personal projects from this. You can too.
Can I join you and your family on a nature walk?
Why is Photography Important?
I’ve read that children feel safe, welcome, seen and loved if there are images of themselves in the family home. I love this idea and think this is something every family needs to know.
You see stories, memories and keepsakes are important. Life is short. Our humanity is what makes us beautiful. The light will never look or be seen the same again and neither will we. We will never have this moment again. So, let’s capture it!
