Taking our connection with Nature to a higher level through conscious interaction

Connection is defined as 'a relationship in which a person or thing is linked or associated with something else' which means human beings are inextricably linked to Nature as we are made of the same atoms, cells and molecules that represent the building blocks of life. Interaction is defined as 'communication or direct involvement with someone or something' which requires our conscious attention, focus and engagement.

Our innate connection to Nature is something that can easily be taken for granted. For example, how often do we consciously focus on our breathing to appreciate this life-giving connection with the air around us? How often do we think about how Nature's elements, cycles and abundance sustain us, nourish us and help us thrive?

With so many distractions in our lives, being consciously present in the here and now does not come easy to us. However, if we don't make the effort, we find ourselves taking our problems for a walk, allowing unhelpful thoughts to take over, rather than using the time to destress or recharge. When we switch our focus to clearing our mind and actively feeling present with an appreciation for our surroundings, our heart-centre immediately starts to resonate at a much higher frequency.

The act of consciously connecting with Nature is the first step towards interacting with Nature which is where the magic happens. It's like the sensation we feel when we sink our bare feet into the soft sand on the beach. We instantly feel a connection to the Earth and as we walk, we sense the interaction - grounding us and making us feel more alive.

Being aware of each of our senses when we are in Nature on all levels of our being elevates our connection into a healing, relaxing and energising state of interaction as follows:

Sight

Eyesight is one of our primary senses through which we perceive about 80 percent of the world around us. Nature involves a wealth of movement, colour, light, shade, distance and perspective that we find ourselves naturally attracted to.

Using our eyes to examine things closely and see things that are far away keeps our eyesight keen and healthy. Consciously observing the detail, character and beauty of living things is therapeutically beneficial as we ‘see, sense and sense-make’ more of Nature's story.

Hearing

Our connection to Nature is confirmed the moment we hear birdsong or the croak of a frog in the garden pond. Hearing things in Nature is closely coupled with qualities relating to our sense of sound (see below).

When we consciously tune in and listen to harmonious and rhythmic vibrations and plug ourselves in (so to speak), this has a deeply therapeutic impact on our brain. It helps us to centre ourselves and meditate to bring about a soothing sense of peace and wellbeing. 

Sound

The beneficial effects of natural sound frequencies on human health have been known since ancient times. This is because the natural sound, rhythm and flow of Nature harmonises with the autonomic nervous system that affects the resting activity of our brain, bringing us into a state of inner rest.

On a deeper level, we can tune into the sacred six-tone healing scale of the Solfeggio Frequencies which are used to balance energy and bring the mind, body, spirit and soul into perfect harmony. Humming as we walk in Nature, singing to ourselves, speaking out loud or whistling along with the birds are other great ways to deepen our interaction.

Smell

When we step outside, the first thing we do is take a deep breath to savour the fresh air. As we breathe in, the smells around us are immediately sent to our brain and we can sense the connection. 

The stronger the scent, the more we take notice (think Lavender fields and Spring blossom). If we pay closer attention, however, we become aware of the more subtle scents which are secreted from plants, trees and the soil beneath our feet. These essential oils and healing substances serve to protect and replenish us naturally by design. 

Touch

Touching natural elements has been identified as a cue for close psychological distance which 'increases the state of Nature-relatedness and intensifies the pleasure derived by the participant.'  We all know how comforting it feels to stroke a receptive animal and sink our fingers into their soft fur - they tend to love it too and it strengthens the connection.

Gently stroking or tracing the surfaces found in Nature with our fingertips awakens the touch receptors in our skin and piques our sensitivity. Consciously appreciating the temperature, textures, shapes and edges of Nature deepens our experience and enlivens our sense of being. 

Taste

Our sense of taste is something that comes into play when, for example, we are caught in heavy rain and can taste the raindrops dripping onto our lips. We are prone to say: 'It looks as good as it tastes' when we are enjoying a plate of delicious food. This equally applies when we are savouring a juicy ripe raspberry or a cup of perfectly infused herbal tea.

It's a good idea to do your research before going around tasting things you find growing in the wild - especially things like wild fruits and mushrooms. However, it's a very healthy learning experience and the minute you down to enjoy your first bowl of creamy Nettle Soup, seasoned with sea salt and black pepper, and served with a chunk of warm, crunchy home-made bread - and knowing how much it's going to nourish your mind, body and soul - this is interaction at it's very best.

Emotions

Nature can generate many positive emotions such as calmness, joy, empathy, sadness, euphoria, awe and creativity. I could go on, suffice to say by appreciating and understanding living things through the eye's of Nature creates a bond that continues throughout our lives. 

Tuning into how we feel about Nature, facilitates concentration and sparks our mental neurons to make connections, create lasting memories and shape our understanding of the world around us. Connecting with Nature on an emotional level is good for our mental health, particularly as a healing remedy for depression and anxiety.

Intuition

Intuition is the first of our higher senses which includes our third eye (perception) and consciousness (interaction). We all have intuitive abilities which are easier to develop and practice when we are surrounded by the calmness, space and serenity Nature provides.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being in Nature is when we spend time alone observing and listening to what the different elements and life-beings are whispering and revealing to us. Paying close attention improves our ability to focus, clear the mind, breathe deeply and tune into our senses thus increasing our sensory awareness.

It is no coicidence that when we are feeling the most relaxed and happy within ourselves, our best ideas - and the answers we have been searching for - come to us.

Intuition is one of the four basic psychological functions along with thinking, feeling and sensing.

Carl Jung