How to Find Healing in Nature

The weather is changing. In the northern hemisphere, it’s spring; in the southern, it’s fall. It’s the perfect weather to go out into nature, whether you want to hike, read, or write outside. And each of these activities can help you on your healing journey.

Why nature?

Too often we let the chaos in the world around us create chaos inside ourselves. This can be especially detrimental if you are a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. The soothing rhythm of nature can calm the chaos inside of us and create a quiet space where we can get back in touch with our bodies, our emotions, and our truth.

Stepping away from our multi-tasking, noisy life and into the steady rhythm of nature can do wonders for you. Even doing a daily task outside that you would usually do inside can have a positive effect on your day. A variety of benefits have been found in regards to spending time outside. You can make the most of this time if you go with a plan in mind.

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH BEFORE YOU GO.

Make the decision before you even go out the door. Do you want to find peace? Do you want to get back in touch with your physical body? Do you want to find insights into a problem?

PICK THE BEST PLACE FOR YOU.

If water calms you, find a lake or pond. If your mind is most clear when you’re exerting yourself, take a difficult hike. If trees give you energy, find one to sit under. And if you’re not sure what you enjoy the most, try it all. Give yourself a chance to experience different natural areas around your home.

BRING A JOURNAL.

This may seem a bit silly, especially if you’re planning a strenuous hike, but being able to write down the insights you have is important. Even if you journal on a regular basis, writing outdoors near nature that you enjoy may bring a new view of things in your life.

Even if you wouldn’t describe yourself as outdoorsy, you can still benefit from a little time in nature. Take some time on a day with good weather this week and see what truths you can learn about yourself from spending time outside.

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