Grounding in nature

Nature has such a calming effect. When we’re in nature we relax and stress melts away. Scientific research studies have shown over and over that this is true. That natural environments benefit our human health. Nature inspires positive emotions. Even viewing nature can be beneficial, as demonstrated in a study that showed having a window in one’s hospital room sped up recovery. Nature images can even reduce pain.

Spending time in forests, known as forest bathing in Japan, increases vigour while decreasing fatigue, anxiety and depression. The practice of forest bathing is remarkably similar to Focusing. To do forest bathing, according to Dr. Qing Li, author of Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness, you:

Let your body be your guide. Listen to where it wants to take you. Follow your nose. And take your time. It doesn’t matter if you don’t get anywhere. You are not going anywhere. You are savoring the sounds, smells and sights of nature and letting the forest in.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s not always possible to get out into nature. The practice of Focusing can take you back to a previous time in nature. Sinking into your body and reliving a memory can evoke feelings of awe, calm, relaxation and connection.

In the following video, I’ll guide you to find such a favourite memory of a time in nature, help you bring it alive, and then savour its emotions.