NURTURED BY NATURE

from Wellness Magazine JULY - SEPTEMBER 2021

UNSHACKLING THE STRAITJACKET OF STRESS

// By Rajgopal Nidamboor

We all go through life like waves over matter, steadily journeying along the ebb and flow of time as we attempt to answer the long-held questions of who we are.

Most of us live in our heads, feeling disconnected, with no real understanding of self or other. However, if we are willing to focus on nurturing our bodies and minds, we can take the first step to connecting with our souls and surrounds.

THE HEALING TOUCH OF NATURE

Nature has a powerful way of filling us with a deep sense of wonder, calm and peace. The jovial chirp-chirp of birdsong and the swooshing sound of rustling wind in the treetops can pull us out of our monkey minds, beckoning us to become intimately in touch with our senses.

Now more than ever, we desperately crave the healing powers of nature, looking to it as an escape from our cabin fever – an invaluable opportunity for fresh air and a clear headspace.

HOW CAN YOU ALLOW NATURE TO NURTURE YOU?

*Try to spend at least five minutes outdoors a day to get away from the endless hours spent sitting behind a desk. *Go for long, leisurely hikes, immersing yourself in the great outdoors. *Bring nature into your home with house plants and green indoor spaces. *Move your body by getting a bit of exercise outside at least three times a week. *Stop and just breathe. Allow nature to elevate your mood by bringing perspective and clarity. *Engage your senses and be present in the moment. Focus intently on how nature stimulates all five of your senses.

While it may sound simple, training yourself to be mindful takes practice. By consciously transforming your time spent outside into a mindful experience, you can enjoy the nurturing comfort that nature has to offer.

THE WAY OF WELLNESS

Mindfulness can be an intentional way of staying grounded amidst physical, emotional and mental changes in our health and wellbeing. The best thing that any of us can do is to heed our body’s signals and improve the quality and depth of our conscious awareness.

This intuitive internal compass is the most persuasive healing force that exists within each of us. It is not just a feeling, but a revelation that we can live life to the fullest - for ourselves and for those we hold dear.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rajgopal Nidamboor, PhD, is a wellness physician, writer, editor, independent researcher and author residing in Mumbai. Visit www.rajnidamboor.com for more.