De-Stress Your Life With Nature

Posted on February 12, 2008 by LJ Earnest
Categories: Out Of The Box

Photo by janusz l

It occurred to me as I sat at my desk at work, that my view out the window really allowed me to stay less stressed. If I am having trouble with some code, watching the seagulls float on the currents is sure to relax me as I contemplate their grace. Even watching the grass wave can soothe.

What nature provides

A different context. Nature is so far removed from what most of us do every day that it gives us a different way to look at life. Sure the spreadsheet may not be going well, but outside the sun is still shining and the birds are singing.

Contact with the wheel of life. Life goes on in cycles of birth and death. We are often isolated from this. Watching nature allows us to see it in motion, such as my glimpse of the feral kittens who were making their first jaunt into the world.

Connection to something bigger. Our lives can become hyper-focused. By looking at the wide world, we can be reminded that the world is bigger than the next report, the traffic jam, or the housework.

The next time you are edgy, I suggest you step outside, or just gaze outside for a while. Take in the natural world and see if you don’t feel better after.