How to connect more with nature while living in the city?! The older we get the more we trapped inside, at work, home, office, studios, subways, public transportation, cars, and etc. This the reason why people less and less connecting with nature while living in the city. When I was a kid I used to play so much outside. That I would only come home to sleep, eat, do homework, and back again outside. I understand that we all have our responsibilities when we grow up and life sometimes is not about only play.
However, I personally think we need to find time to be more in nature or outside. First of all, it’s good for physical, mental health. Secondly, when we stay a lot of time inside our lungs don’t get enough oxygen which leads to improper breathing which leads to health issues. And finally, with the Pandemic, we tend to stay inside more and we wear masks which leads to respiratory problems because of a lack of oxygen in our system. Even being in a park for 30 min a day is more beneficial than not at all.
I would like to share how to connect more with nature while living in the city.
If you have time every other month try to go camping/hiking in the forest by yourself or with a close friend. Chose a place where you can recharge. Away from the city noise and light noise. It’s a great workout, can be very meditative, but also a great way to connect with nature if you don’t have opportunities for long vacations. You can find more about first time camping here.
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It’s more comfortable than camping and you can stay for several days in the woods by disconnecting from the outside world. Sometimes changing your environment can help you just to switch your mind to something else. On top of it, if you can be in nature imagine whats the quality of the air you get and what quality of sleep you can get there.
I know it’s simple but try to walk every day in your local park or if you come from the subway one or 2 stops before and just walk to your house on the less traffic road. It helps not only with stress but also with weight loss, promotes great sleep and appetite, and for some people, it’s a great place to brainstorm or a way of meditation.
Gyms, studios are great since those places have equipment and comfortability. Try to challenge yourself twice or more times per week to work out outside, which helps with stress relief, blood circulation, and maintaining your lung endurance. You can run in the park, bike, hike, do yoga or fitness exercises outside, at the parks, fields, beaches, promenades and etc.
If you have a back yard it’s a great benefit but if not then you can sign to different community gardens or have a friend who has a backyard and grow together. Gardening is very grounding and great to balance your root chakra. And on top, you getting sunlight, air and finally delicious veggies or fruits.
I personally can say from my own experience that being outside especially connecting with nature keeps the body not only healthy but helps the mind to recharge on a different level. Big cities carry a lot of energy and unfortunately bad air quality. So if you have a possibility to close to nature take that advantage because your body will be grateful!
If you have any other options on how to connect with nature feel free to share and comment below.