Nature RX
Do you know what daily experience I can almost guarantee you are missing out on?
Mindful nature connection.
In our fast-paced, urban, and technologically saturated world, we easily forget that we are living on a miraculous, breathtakingly beautiful, living masterpiece called Earth.
This month, I invite you to step into nature and simply be - to give your mind, body, and soul the gift of fully unplugging. To enhance this experience, I’ve included an Ecopsychology practice for you to try at the end of this newsletter. I hope you’ll explore it and enjoy some of the incredible health benefits we’ll discuss here.
The Benefits of Spending Time in the Natural World:
Ecopsychology - the study of the human-nature connection - reveals just how deeply nourishing time in nature is, not only for our psyche, but for our body and soul. Research shows that our brain on nature produces a powerful elixir of regenerative neurochemicals, alongside a heightened sense of connection to ourselves and the living world.
We can think of this healing elixir as Nature Rx - a prescription for holistic well-being.
Nature Rx Boosts:
Mental & Emotional Health: The rhythmic brain activity that occurs in nature increases focus, cognitive flexibility and creativity. There is also lower activation of the brain structure that signals fear and threat (the amygdala) in natural settings - all of which helps us feel calm and “restored”.
Physical Health: Enhanced immune function, vitality, and sleep.
Social & Relational Well-being: Positive social connection and more meaningful interactions.
Spiritual & Existential Nourishment: Ego softening, biophilic responses (gratitude, awe), and direct experiences of the sacred.
In essence, our brains are wired for nature, and as ecopsychology research continues to grow, it’s clear that spending time outdoors is more than just a leisure activity – it’s essential for mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Perhaps this is the key to feeling whole and deeply alive.
What’s The Right Dose?
Any amount of nature connection will provide benefit, however studies show 30 minutes a week is helpful, and 120 minutes a week provides consistently higher levels of health and well-being.
One Simple and Easy Way to Get Your Daily Dose:
Barefoot Grounding: Take 5 minutes and step outside on the Earth with bare feet and feel the sun on your face. Just breathe.
A Contemplation:
If we feel healthier, happier, and more whole in nature – and less so when we are cut off from it – what does that say about where “you” end and the natural world begins?
How Mindfulness in Nature Amplifies its Benefits:
Practicing mindfulness in nature is like receiving a supercharged "Nature Rx" - it amplifies nature’s calming, grounding, and restorative effects. It’s not just about being outside, but about being present with nature, allowing its healing power to fully work on your mind, body, and soul.
Nature becomes a guide and sanctuary, helping us return to balance and wholeness. By attuning to its rhythms and beauty, we allow nature to co-regulate our nervous system, drawing us back into our optimal state of being.
Try This Ecopsychology Practice: Non-Conceptual Awareness in Nature
Non-conceptual awareness – often referred to as direct experience or non-thought based attention – means observing the present moment without filtering it through thoughts, judgments, or preconceived notions. It’s a mindfulness practice where the individual simply observes the sensations, sounds, sights, and feelings in nature without labeling or interpreting them. This kind of awareness can significantly enhance the positive effects nature has on the brain, mental health, and emotional well-being.
Find a quiet, comfortable spot in nature where you won’t be disturbed.
As you settle, take 3 deep breaths, gently scanning and opening to your surroundings.
Rest your eyes on something pleasant - perhaps a tree, the sky, or a flower - and set the intention to release mental labels and judgments.
For example: If looking at the ocean, resist labeling it as “the ocean” - instead, simply observe the play of light, sound, and movement without words.
Use your breath as an anchor. If your mind starts to analyze or narrate, gently return your focus to the breath and your raw sensory experience.
After some time, reflect:
How did this shift your perception?
Did your senses sharpen?
Did you feel more connected? At ease?
Let this be a moment of quiet contemplation.
I hope you take time to try this practice and discover firsthand the regenerative energy nature offers. Every mindful step outside becomes a profound healing practice, tapping into the innate well-being nature so generously provides.
It’s a holistic, self-sustaining form of therapy - and the best part? It’s completely free.
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where Nature may heal and cheer and give strength to body and soul alike.”
