Mindfulness involves being present in the moment without judgment. Our research shows that practicing mindfulness in natural settings significantly boosts emotional well-being and deepens our connection to the environment. Indigenous wisdom teaches us that mindfulness in nature fosters a profound respect and appreciation for all living beings.
“Mindfulness is the miracle by which we master and restore ourselves.”
Thich Nhat Hanh
Meditation and mindfulness can reduce stress and improve symptoms of stress-related conditions such as IBS, PTSD, and fibromyalgia. Stress reduction is a well-known benefit of meditation, but it can also improve memory. Studies have found that regular meditation can actually improve our focus, boost our brain’s capacity of working memory and long-term memory, and even increase our brain’s gray matter in regions involved in learning, memory, and emotion regulation. Sleep disturbances and sleep-related issues are common issues among an estimated 30% of the general population. After some time, a lack of quality sleep can cause mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive impairments, and cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that regular meditation and mindfulness practices such as mindfulness-based therapy, can lessen anxiety and depression and improve our sleep quality.
Taking meditative practices outdoors can help us connect more deeply with ourselves. We become more aware and attentive when meditating outside. While in nature, and with the abandonment of distractions such as our phones, our typical worries can begin to feel more insignificant. Our interactions with nature are so well-established that an entire field of study, ecopsychology, is dedicated to the study of it. Much like OneNature, ecopsychology recognizes that our emotional and spiritual well-being is dependent on our ability to live in harmony with the environment.
Incorporating meditation and mindfulness into your life doesn’t need to be a complete overhaul. You can do an easy and quick practice by beginning your day with a 5-minute mindfulness meditation that can set a calm and focused tone for your day:
Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.
Notice the sensation of the air entering and leaving your nostrils.
If your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath.
At OneNature, we firmly believe that there are profound spiritual and cultural ties as well as physical ones between people and the natural environment. Our efforts in this field are motivated by the realization that deep relationships with nature are critical to the well-being of both people and communities. Our research shows that spending time in nature, understanding our place within the natural world, and cultivating respect for all living beings leads to measurable improvements in well-being, including reduced stress, enhanced mental clarity, and stronger social bonds. But beyond individual benefits, these connections are critical for fostering a global movement toward sustainability and conservation.
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