Wednesday Zenday: Nature

When we are in a natural environment our mind is at ease and our body feels connected. It is truly amazing to experience the beauty of something humanity had absolutely nothing to do with. Studies have shown that a decrease in stress and fatigue occurs when we are in the good ol' outdoors. We also feel more socially connected to the people we are sharing our outdoor experience with as it is pegged an "adventure".

In fact, two of my most pleasant experiences were in regards to nature. One time was when I first saw clear blue water in St. Thomas. A rush of tranquility and mindfulness came over me. The lush green hills paired with the turquoise crystal water is an image I will never forget. At that moment nothing else mattered. I was completely living in the now. The second time was in California at Big Bear Lake during the snow season and a small group of us hiked a most scenic mountain path. When we finally reached the top of Castle Rock, looking below at the lake and surrounding beauty was unmatched to anything I had ever experienced. Yet again, I was in the now.

We can add zen to our lives this week by incorporating nature into our daily routines. If you have the opportunity, take a walk outside, drive with the windows down, or step away from the office and take a breather for a moment or two. But what if you live in a city where nature is limited? That's easy, purchase some wildlife such as flowers, plants, ferns, etc. to spice up your space. What if you have really bad allergies? Go to Walmart, Target, or Kmart and get yourself a faux plant, of course. You can add nature to your life regardless of your circumstances. In fact there's no excuse not to because nature physically as well as mentally creates zen in your life.

Wishing you a zenful day~