Fall is one of the best times of years to reconnect with nature. It offers cooler temperatures, trees bursting with color and no swarming bugs! Connecting to the earth brings balance and awareness to the body, which in turn brings balance and awareness to the mind and soul. Our bodies come from nature and when we connect to our bodies we connect to the earth, the living mother of all.
Many Native American cultures believe that all things are interconnected and that there is an interdependence between humans and all other forms of life. Respect must be given when interacting with animals, plants, trees and birds, as well as, the rivers, oceans, earth and the sky. To sit in nature is to be close to the mothering power of the earth. Her soil is comforting, strengthening, cleansing and healing.
“The old Lakota was wise. He knew that a man’s heart away from nature becomes hard; he knew that lack of respect for growing, living things soon led to lack of respect for humans too. So he kept his youth close to its softening influence.” -Chief Luther Standing Bear, Lakota Sioux
One of the easiest ways to reconnect with nature, especially for those living in rural areas is to take a walk. Walk slowly, clearing the mind of all thought, and breathe slowly; this will calm the body and enable you to focus on your surroundings. Next, bring your awareness to a tree. Study it without judgment, observing its bark, limbs and leaves. When ready, hug the tree and envision yourself and the tree as one. Let it energize and strengthen you, feel the mutual earthly bond and connection.
It is important to remember the interdependence humans, trees and plants share. Trees and plants exhale oxygen into the air, which humans need to breathe, and humans exhale carbon dioxide, which trees and planets need.
Reconnect with mother earth at her oceans. Like moths to flames people from around the world continually flock to the oceans and her shores. Sit and listen to waves, let the rhythmic sound bring balance and a sense of wonder to you as you gaze into the blue abyss. Feel the sand beneath your toes and feet as it satisfies your body’s primal need for reconnection. The whooshing of the waves calms the body and takes the mind back to a time when it felt the comfort of the mother’s womb.
Cleanse the spirit at a brook or stream. Begin by envisioning the gentle flow of the water washing through your body, carrying away anger, negativity, self-doubt and emotional baggage. Let the fresh water reinvigorate your body and remind your soul that it has all that it needs within.
Even city dwellers can get reconnected with nature and experience the interconnectedness of life by planting tubs or window boxes with vegetable and or flowers. This will attract bees and butterflies. Or, hang a bird feeder on our balcony or window sill and bring the wildlife to you. Visit a city park- some have ponds and streams that attract turtles, birds and more.
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
– Albert Einstein
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