Embracing Tranquility: The Art of Nature Retreats
In the bustling rhythm of our modern lives, where time slips away unnoticed and the constant hum of technology fills our every moment, finding a sanctuary for the soul has become a difficult pursuit. The ever-growing list of daily obligations often leaves us yearning for a space where time slows down, allowing us the precious opportunity to be present with ourselves, to delve deeper into the recesses of our thoughts, and to reconnect with the simplicity of life. In this time of perpetual connectivity, arises an undeniable need for fostering a different kind of connection, than those we maintain digitally. Taking time to gather mindfully, retreating into nature to find solace, foster connections whilst being present and awakening our awareness.
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The Healing Power of Nature
Stress Relief: Nature has a unique ability to reduce stress and promote overall well-being, just taking time to look at things outside of ourselves helps us to gain perspective and see the bigger picture, we often feel so small when looking up at the stars, or over a large body of water. Thoughts start to dissipate as we focus on what we can see, hear, feel and experience in the moment. It can be a very grounding practice to just listen to the sounds that surround you, whether that be the crashing waves, bird song or leaves in the wind.
Connection with the Natural World: Beyond stress reduction, nature has been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that individuals who engaged in regular nature walks reported a substantial decrease in feelings of rumination. Nature, it seems, possesses the extraordinary ability to untangle the complexities of our thoughts, offering a respite from the mental clutter that hangs heavy on us daily.
Immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of nature encourages a state of present-moment awareness, a key component in reducing the grip of stress and promoting overall mental resilience.
Choosing the Right Retreat Location
Scenic Beauty: There are many different options for a retreat in an area of natural beauty, perhaps consider what each may do for you. Some feel a wave of calm being near a body of water, such as the sea, a river or lake. Others prefer the scale of a mountain, something that feels so much more than what they are, can help to surrender into the present moment. Perhaps you’d feel better being grounded and held by a forest, with trees to give you a sense of protection and feeling of being surrounded by wisdom. All of these wonderful natural occurrences can offer many benefits to the human mind and soul.
Seclusion and Silence: Ideally you want to head somewhere that is somewhat cut off, away from noise of daily life, perhaps no signal so you cannot be tempted to be in contact digitally. Seclusion can allow a chance for self study, to begin introspection and reflection.
Activities for Nature Retreats
Mindful Practices: Using mindfulness activities such as meditation, yoga, walking or swimming can be a gentle way to guide the body and mind into slowing down and settling into this new space you find yourself in. An opportunity to move and release stress and energy that has built up, so that you can embrace your time away with calmness.
Digital Detox: Taking time away from being on screen, constantly available online at everyones beck and call is a practice that can allow you to reconnect with yourself, recalibrate and listen to your body. Having near constant visual stimulation from screens and media that constantly shortens our attention span is incredibly damaging. Taking yourself away to reset from these things can help strengthen mental health, memory and many more way in which our bodies work.
Planning Your Retreat
Solo or Group Retreats: Both of these types of retreats can be incredibly satisfying, it depends on what you need at the time, it is not always the best idea to head away solo if you are experiencing active trauma, support may be needed during this time.
Packing Essentials: Provide a checklist of essentials pertaining to the activities you wish to engage in, perhaps something to do with your hands — paints, pencils to draw what you are surrounded in or clay to create and to use to ground yourself. Maybe you’d like to practice some creative writing, or perhaps delve deeper into some self study through answering some journalling prompts. Always ensure you have comfortable clothing, weather essentials if it were to rain, hiking gear, and enough warm things to stay cosy overnight.
Personal Experiences
Share Your Experience: If you've personally experienced a retreat that has shone a light into your life and created meaning and positivity, you are welcome to share your insights and the impact it had on you.
References
"Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing." White, M.P., Alcock, I., Wheeler, B.W. et al. Sci Rep 9, 7730 (2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3
"Can walking in nature improve mood and reduce rumination?" Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., Hahn, K. S., Daily, G. C., & Gross, J. J. (2015). Ecopsychology, 7(2), 74-82. DOI: 10.1089/eco.2014.0027
"The psychological benefits of interacting with nature." Berto, R. (2014). Psychology of Well-Being, 4(1), 1-15. DOI: 10.1186/s13612-014-0024-6