Nature Connection & Well-Being

There’s now much research highlighting the importance of nature connection and well-being. Spending time in nature or bringing plants into our homes can lift our spirits, reduce stress, and offer rejuvenation from mental fatigue. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a moment next to trees in a garden, or seeking out beautiful natural spaces, this precious time can have a profound impact on our overall sense of well-being.

 

Understanding Nature Connection 

Nature connection refers to our enduring relationship with the living world, encompassing emotions, attitudes, and behaviour. It goes beyond simply spending time in nature; it involves intentional engagement and a deeper presence. The fundamental changes needed are internal, with shifts in how we think and feel about nature, recognising ourselves as a part of it.

 

“Is the fundamental problem that we see other people and other animals as just that: ‘the other’? Might we do better if instead we saw all other people and all other sentient beings as ‘another’?”

~ Joyce D’Silva ~

Reflecting on Your Relationship with the Living World 

When we spend time in forests, by the ocean, or watching the sunset, we experience a sense of awe and wonder. Nature stirs emotions within us and revitalises our senses. It offers us a chance to reflect on what truly matters and ignites our curiosity about the natural world. Exploring this curiosity may take time and practice, but it is an invaluable journey of learning and discovery.

My relationship with the living world keeps me alive and vital. She invites me to be curious and humble. She helps me to remember what’s really important and revitalises my senses. I often feel a deep sense of reverence for the Earth and the great mystery that is life.

Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with the living world.

What do you notice about yourself when you spend time in nature?

What are you curious about?

Challenging Perceptions and Building Connections 

Many individuals feel hesitant to express their deep connection to nature, fearing it may seem unimportant or unnecessary. This hesitation stems from a dominant mindset that sees humans as separate from and superior to the rest of nature. However, our relationship with the Earth is reciprocal, and what we do as humans has significant consequences for the ecosystems we are a part of. 

Challenging this perception is crucial for addressing social and environmental crises and realising the interdependence of our well-being with the health of the biosphere.

 

Pathways to Nature Connection 

The University of Derby offers some fantastic free resources on nature connection. You can download the Nature Connection Handbook here.

They outline the five pathways to nature connection as:

Senses: Exploring and experiencing nature through all the senses.

Beauty: Seeking and appreciating the beauty of the natural world.

Emotion: Noticing and welcoming the feelings nature inspires.

Meaning: Celebrating and sharing nature’s cycles and stories.

Compassion: Helping and caring for nature, making ethical choices.

 

Nature-Based Coaching 

Coaching in nature offers a unique opportunity to calm the nervous system, practice mindfulness, and transform personal challenges. It combines the benefits of nature’s presence with various coaching techniques and therapeutic nature connection practices, providing a space for self-exploration and awareness. These sessions can be deeply transformative, leaving individuals feeling calmer and more inspired.

 

Final Words and an Invitation 

Nature connectedness as a practice, nourishes our well-being and strengthens our connection to the living world around us. If you’re interested in exploring coaching in nature, I welcome you to book a free discovery call to find out more.