What is it about going barefoot? Whether it’s the sun kissed sand in the afternoon or the dewy grass field at dawn, there is something simply amazing about feeling the earth under our feet. In today’s concrete world we rarely find ourselves frolicking in a daisy field or taking long walks through the forest. Hell we hardly get outside! Research actually reveals that on average most humans spend 95 percent of their time indoors. While we might be getting a ton of work done, what are we sabotaging by not connecting with nature?
As human beings who have evolved with and as a part of nature for over 40,000 years there is an intrinsic connection we have with Earth. Just taking a walk through a park or wood is enough to lift our spirits and calm the nerves and mind. While you may be thinking this is a little esoteric, numerous psychologists believe that prolonged separation from nature can result in psychological problems such as depression, alienation and dysfunctional behavior. These Ecopsychologists study how our psychological health is tied to our relationship with the natural environment. In short they believe that de-natured environments create de-natured people. Theodore Roszak, founder of the Ecopsychology Institute of California State University, states, “We have detached ourselves so completely from natural environment that it is wounding our mental health.”
Think about it, when was the last time you actually touched soil with your bare hands or feet? Gardeners excluded (you lucky souls!), most people go for months without ever coming into contact. We live our lives inside temperature controlled rooms, and walking on concrete or other flooring. Even when we do take a walk on the wild side and venture into the city park or to a tranquil beach we still have a layer of rubber or leather between our feet and the ground. Usually in horribly uncomfortable shoes!
So Here Is Your Challenge: At least once a week take time out to commune with nature. Get your hands dirty! Whether you plant and mend a garden or dance naked under a moonlit field, feel the Earth under your feet. Inhale the fresh air, smell all the smells, take it all in. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel. You’ll soon crave that time outdoors. There’s a reason after months of long work indoors that we have to escape to some gorgeous tropical place… we need to see and feel the beauty of nature! Don’t wait until you go stir crazy, find a little touch of nature here and now.
Another fabulous way to do this is to add nature to your home. Create a harmonious environment that will nurture and sustain you by bringing plants, rocks, shells, and branches into your home as accents or decor. Gather leaves or flowers from the park and create a stunning centerpiece to bring nature to you. Fill your fountain with local river rock, that will remind you of the beauty of that particular river and adventure.
See you at the beach!
Resource: Feng Shui For The Soul, by Denise Linn. Bestselling author of Sacred Space.
