The spirituality that connects you to the Earth

In today’s busy world, forming a real connection with the earth seems almost impossible. Most people spend most of their waking hours indoors, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, even recreational, entertainment, and social activity are confined to a screen and many times even wasting time with porno videos that help further distance us from reality. This leaves us with little opportunity to connect with our surroundings.

If you’ve been feeling especially stressed and anxious lately, it may be due to a lack of exposure to nature. A study published in 2017 found that spending time outside helps reduce stress levels and improve mood. And while we don’t always think about how much time we spend outdoors, research suggests that we could benefit from being out in nature more often.

How to connect in six steps

Here are six simple ways to form a deeper connection with the natural world around you.

1. Make a Nature Altar

A nature altar is a place where you display objects that remind you of nature. You might choose items like shells, feathers, stones, crystals, seeds, dried plants, and flowers. Some people hang pictures of trees, animals, or landscapes. Others keep a small shrine in their home.

2. Create a Garden Journal

Gardening provides a great way to become more mindful of the environment. Gardening is one of the oldest forms of meditation, and many cultures have long used gardening as a spiritual practice. If you want to get started on your own garden journal, start by choosing an area for your garden. Then, take some time to observe what grows naturally there. What do you see? How does the soil look? Do you notice any insects? Are there birds or other wildlife nearby?

3. Plant a Tree

Planting a tree can help you feel connected to the natural world. It also has benefits for your health. Trees provide oxygen, clean air, and shade. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere. When you plant a tree, you’re helping to create a healthier planet.

4. Take a Walk Outside

Walking through nature is another way to connect with the natural world. Studies show that taking walks in green spaces reduces stress and improves mental focus. Try walking along a river, through a park, or up a mountain trail.

5. Watch Wildlife

Watching wild animals in their habitat is a powerful experience. Animals are very aware of their surroundings, so when they spot something new, they react quickly. Watching them interact with each other teaches us about cooperation and competition.

6. Listen to Birdsong

Bird song is a wonderful way to get connected with the natural world. The sound of birds singing reminds us of the beauty of life. Birdsong also helps us sleep better at night and help us relax. They can even be used as an aid in meditation.

Change your habits

We live in a culture where we often forget about nature. We spend too much time indoors. And our relationship with nature is shallow. But there’s something very special about being outdoors. When you connect with nature, you experience a feeling called “presence.” You feel alive. You feel free. You feel peaceful.

You might think that connecting with nature is just another way to relax. But I’m here to tell you that it goes beyond relaxation. There’s a reason why people from different cultures throughout history have been drawn to Nature. They found inspiration, healing, peace and renewal.