Natural Relaxation for Stress Relief – How to Let Nature Nurture You

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. ~Lao Tzu

I once saw a much stressed papa quail. He was bringing up the rear of an extremely large brood of chicks. Mama was leading the way, and it was the papa’s job to keep them rounded up in a tight group. He actually looked frazzled! A harried quail is an exception to nature’s norm. Nature does not usually rush through her tasks, but rather prefers to unfold, ripen, or transform according to her own unhurried timetable.

Learn stress relief lessons from nature by paying attention to the message. For example, a tree with space between its branches allows the wind to flow through the limbs rather than causing a branch to break. The significance you can learn from this? Put open space in your home and plan free space in your schedule. You’ll feel much less stress and be less likely to snap!

In addition to providing us with notable messages, being outdoors has a stress-busting effect. Unfortunately, there has been a culture shift in our society keeping us indoors. Even our exercise, including our yoga practice for stress, often takes place on the fitness equipment in a gym. Today we seem to have to make a conscious effort to get outside, slow down, and smell the roses!

To experience nature on a regular, daily basis, incorporate some of these suggestions into your routine: 

* Try walking outdoors for a change of pace from your usual treadmill session. Pay attention to the birds you see during your walk. You may want to purchase a field guide so you can identify the birds.

* Arrange nature dates for weekends when you have a bit more time for a longer excursion. Many parks offer guided hikes with a ranger who can explain the plants along the trail or help you learn about local wildlife.

* When was the last time you watched the sun set, the sun rise, or the moon rise? Check your newspaper or a weather Web site and determine when the sun rises and sets.

* Start a garden; even potted flowers on the patio connect you with the cycles of nature.

* Decorate your home or office with nature photographs or posters.

Be creative and think outside the box to bring more nature into your day. My office window does not have the best view. I often move my laptop to the dining area so I can face my backyard. As I write this article, I’m watching a clever Gila woodpecker who has figured out how to drink from my hummingbird feeder. Ah, a message of inspiration for resourcefulness!

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. ~Albert Einstein

Learn easy ways to reduce the stress in your life. Get Sue’s FREE report, “Manage Stress Now – 25 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Stress,” at http://www.planetbioscan.com/free-report.html

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