I recently took some time out and spent 10 days in the Northlands of New Zealand. My work can be challenging at times as well as rewarding. I was definitely ready, and needed, to recharge my physical, spiritual, and emotional batteries.
Humans appear to have a natural inclination to “need” time in nature to optimize general health and well-being. Research has shown that spending time in natural surroundings has been highly beneficial to improving and maintaining good mental health. My experience while on my recent holiday reinforced this theory. Whilst I was blessed to spend time connecting with dear friends at the start of the trip (healthy connections with other people is also crucial to human happiness), and I enjoyed meeting new people along the way, the most rejuvenating part of my holiday was time spent connecting with nature.
The video above was a moment when I was delighted to connect with the traditional culture, and nature, when a tour arrived at the site of Tane Mahuta
The Maori guide was educating the tour about the Maori beliefs around this tree, and the spiritual meaning. My appreciation for the expressed beliefs was a great way to have a wonderful connection to nature through the story of Maori lore. Whilst no-one could get close enough to hug the tree, the energy of song created a connection and honouring of the tree and the surrounding forest.
I hope you enjoy the short video I was able to capture. I hope you appreciate the value of caring for, and connecting to nature: especially when you understand the age of this giant of the forest. The tree is reported to be up to 2,500 years old. I hope you find time to appreciate how spending conscious time in nature actually nurtures us.
Perhaps this post could serve to encourage you to step outside and into the natural world of your choice to enhance your well-being. Put the business of life aside, even if it means enjoying your own garden if you are lucky enough to have one where you live.
Where would you choose to enjoy nature? The mountains, the local park, a river, the beach? Anywhere you can offer yourself the time and space to be in nature, take the moment to be present with yourself and the surroundings. Take time to honour all life.
You will see in the side bar of my website that I have uploaded some videos and meditations of moments where I stop to enjoy life. I hope you enjoy them too.
Wishing you good health and well-being: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually – what ever that means for you.