This is why it’s important to get outside.
Not surprisingly, studies show that when we spend time in nature, we are better able to relax and rest.
The brain heals when it experiences nature.
For those of us recovering from chronic pain, our time in nature helps bring us into the present moment, thereby curtailing our tendencies to ruminate and catastrophize.
Specifically, research reveals that the subgenual prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain associated with negative thinking, has less blood flow to it after time spent outdoors. This part of the brain is quieter, which allows us to experience increased feelings of well-being.
There is something deeply primal and fulfilling about being outside in the elements – beyond the science.
We get a direct experience of the Higher Power of our understanding.
We are tuned in.
We leave our modern high-tech way of being behind and we get ‘in the zone’
… where we humans used to live not so many years ago.
We bring in our sense of being connected to the All That Is.
We move from the state of ‘doing’ to the state of ‘being’.
Our time outside is indeed a living mindful meditation.
We tap into the awesomeness of these natural external cues which then allow us to more easily access our inner awesomeness. (I know, that doesn’t sound very scientific, but it is how it is nonetheless.)
The power of healing that being in nature brings into our recovery cannot be underestimated.
I encourage you to add this potent mantra to your list: “get outside”
… and apply it liberally each day.
