Engaging in Dialogue and Connecting with the Environment
Nature's Whispers: Hearing the Crypto-Code of Wellness
You don't have to be a certified health practitioner to realize that nature has hidden health messages for you - just like Brendan, my client who discovered this while standing under a tree waiting for his test results. You might find yourself moved to dialogue with the falling snow outside a wintry window and gain insights about purity, renewal, or a fresh start.
Sometimes, these natural experiences could prompt you to slow down and disconnect from the noisy distractions of everyday life, reminding you that you and your body are one with the elements around you. This realization is key to experiencing greater wellness.
One cold winter evening, I stepped out into the night to observe the moon, which peeked through the clouds like a secret message. In my dialogue with the moon, I was reminded of how some things are visible but not always apparent - aspects of our health that may go unnoticed if we don't keep a sharp eye out for them. Soon after this, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a condition that was concealed until the moment it was revealed.
Embrace the opportunities to reconnect with nature and harness its healing energies. The next time you find yourself gazing upon a snowfall, gone astray in a storm, or mesmerized by the rhythm of the tides, take a moment to listen and learn. It may bring you comfort, wisdom, or a renewed sense of gratitude.
Whenever you engage in mindfulness practices surrounded by nature, remember to set up a sacred space, cleanse your energy field, and practice mindful breathing. If you receive any messages, take a moment to thank the elements for gracing you with their insights.
If it's been a while since you last spent time in nature, tune in to its healing powers with the following classic, yet simple practice. Connect with the energy of the sun on your skin, for as Carl Jung once said, "The longing for light is the longing for consciousness."
Sun Salutation: Greeting the Dawn
Plan to awaken before the first light of dawn and watch the sunrise in an open space that's free of obstruction. As soon as you rise, go outside and greet the sun as it begins to spread its light and warmth.
Stand tall, fully present in the moment, and imagine the sun observing and greeting you as you do the same. Breathe in sync with the gentle rhythm of the sun's ascent. You might choose a yoga pose such as the Sun Salutation or simply extend your arms out to your side, palms up, and thrust your chest forward.
Turn your face towards the sun and feel its energy enveloping you, noticing the sensations of your breath as the warm rays touch you. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the surroundings, free of conscious thoughts.
When you feel ready, gaze out at the horizon or the sky, and ask the sun for guidance about your health. Pause, open to the possible answers that come to you, and breathe. Practice this ritual every day to access the sun's healing powers, and keep a journal of your experiences to reflect on the insights you've gained.
Expanded-awareness practices such as sun salutations can help you co-create with the powerful energies of nature to access their healing properties. If you don't receive a clear answer while communicating with nature, maintain your presence in the moment and observe your thoughts and sensations. Later, you can choose to delve deeper into the experience for further understanding.
Nature Painting: A Path to Self-Discovery
Another practice that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions is nature painting. Choose a picturesque natural location, bring portable yet eco-friendly art tools, immerse yourself in the sight, sound, and touch of the surroundings, and create art that reflects your connection with nature.
Nature painting supports relaxation, mindfulness, self-awareness, and provides a unique opportunity to tap into your creative potential. Make it a meditation in itself by focusing on the process rather than the outcome.
by Carl Greer PhD PsyD
Carl Greer, PhD, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst, and shamanic practitioner. He teaches at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago, and his work spans across the fields of psychology, healing arts, and spirituality. Learn more about his approach at www.CarlGreer.com.
Sources:1. Greer, C. (2008). The New Dictionary of dream symbolism. Shambhala Publications.2. Grannum, J. (2014). Hatha Yoga: A Complete Guide. Netpresenter.3. Kallio, H. (2005). Healing with yoga: The Mayo Clinic program for achieving total health. Mayo Clinic Health Solutions.4. Rao, V. (2012). Mind Power: Reach Higher States of Consciousness to Improve Memory, School Performance and Behavior. Mahanayaka Foundation - Rama Publications.
Enrichment Data:
Overall:
Expanded-awareness practices combined with nature and health - such as sun salutations (often represented in yoga as Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutations) and nature painting techniques - promote holistic well-being by engaging the physical body, mind, and connection with the Earth.
Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar/Sun Salutations)
DescriptionSurya Namaskar is a dynamic series of yoga postures conducted in a fluid motion, typically performed at sunrise. It serves as a full-body workout that unites body, breath, and spirit, enhancing overall well-being.
Physical Benefits- Develops and tones muscles throughout the body.- Boosts flexibility and range of motion.- Enhances circulation and cardiovascular health.- Encourages detoxification via stimulation of the lymphatic system.- Functions as a thorough warm-up for deeper exercises.
Mental and Emotional Benefits- Develops focus, determination, and discipline.- Cultivates a sense of renewal and alertness.- Supports emotional balance and mental clarity.- Encourages self-exploration and body awareness.
Spiritual Benefits- Activates prana (life-force energy), positively impacting the solar plexus chakra.- Strengthens one's connection with the natural rhythms of the day.- Serves as a moving meditation or prayer.
Best Practices- Practice at sunrise or early in the morning.- Find a location with abundant sunlight to deepen the connection with nature.- Reflect on your relationship with the practice to nurture your intentions.
Nature Painting Techniques
DescriptionNature painting involves creating artwork outdoors, utilizing the natural scenery as both inspiration and palette. It encourages sensory engagement with the environment, mindfulness, and artistic expression.
Benefits- Promotes relaxation and stress reduction.- Enhances mindfulness and presence.- Cultivates a deeper connection with the natural world, fostering mental and emotional wellness.- Stimulates creativity and intuition.- Facilitates a meditative state by engrossing the artist in the process.
Practical Tips for Nature Painting- Seek out a beautiful, inspiring natural setting (e.g., park, garden, riverbank).- Employ portable, earth-friendly art supplies (watercolors, sketchbooks, natural pigments).- Practice thoughtful observation and gratitude for the surroundings.- Allow the experience to be meditative, focusing on the artistic process rather than the outcome.
Summary Table
| Practice | Main Benefits | How to Practice ||-------------------------|-------------------------------------------|---------------------------------|| Sun Salutation | Body strength, mental clarity, spiritual connection| At sunrise/early morning in sunlight || Nature Painting | Relaxation, mindfulness, creativity | Outdoors, in an inspiring location |
Both practices promote enhanced awareness by fostering a deep connection with nature, balancing mind, body, and spirit, and supporting overall well-being.
- Incorporating the healing energies of nature into your lifestyle can aid in personal growth and self-development, especially through practices like sun salutations or nature painting.
- Sun Salutations, or Surya Namaskar, offer the benefits of body strength, mental clarity, and spiritual connection when performed at sunrise in an open space with ample sunlight.
- Nature painting, when done outdoors in a picturesque location, can promote relaxation, mindfulness, creativity, and a deeper connection with the natural environment, thus enhancing your home-and-garden and outdoor-living experiences.
