What Does It Really Mean to ‘Reconnect With Nature’?

Have you heard a friend or family member talk about how they “reconnected with nature”? It’s surreal to think how going outside your front door is supposed to be so life-changing. That said, there’s a reason why this concept has been shared around for so many years. Here’s why it’s time to discover the meaning of reconnecting with nature.

Reconnecting With Nature Meaning

Reconnecting with nature means going back to humanity’s roots. Before concrete buildings and technological advancements, the natural environment was home to people. Many relied on the food it brought and the experiences it offered. Eventually, society even learned to cultivate the resources to create warmth, households and much more.

People tend to stay indoors nowadays, which creates a disconnect between the outdoor world. It hinders the necessary relationships between humanity and the environment. As much as the Earth needs you, you also need it. The meaning of reconnecting with nature is realizing that vital facet of your life and paying attention to the sole habitat humanity has.

Why You Need Nature

Reconnecting with nature has many benefits. Rather than instantly dismissing the idea, learn why you need it in the first place.

1. It Promotes Exercise

Nature has beautiful landscapes to encourage you to explore. While you can browse them from a vehicle, going on foot is the best way to experience these natural wonders. Luckily, it helps you get your physical activity in.

Exercise is already good for keeping the blood flowing and strengthening your muscles. Thankfully, it also does wonders for your brain health. Going on a 15-minute walk outdoors improves attention and working memory compared to the same activity indoors.

2. It Reduces Stress

Work and life become overwhelming at times, which can negatively impact your mental health. It’s important to take a break, and what better way to spend it than in the wilderness? It can lessen stress and anxiety by improving your mood.

Even if you aren’t currently stressed, being in nature can just boost your happiness levels. Focus all your attention and energy on the natural environment and breathe. Listen to the birds sing and watch how the leaves dance to the wind.

3. It Gives You a Break From Technology

Imagine working on a screen for eight hours and going back home just to use a smaller device for the rest of the evening. Technology is a helpful tool, but it is not healthy to be glued to these gadgets every single hour of the day.

Shut down your computers and cell phones and consider roaming during your free time. It’s also good to set an example for younger children and teenagers with longer screen times. The internet can be relatively addicting, so balancing it out is necessary.

4. It Offers Perspective

Reconnecting with nature helps you develop mindfulness. You tend to grow a deeper appreciation for the food you get, the animals you care for and so much more. It can eventually grow into a deep love for the environment.

Too many people need to be aware of what the Earth is experiencing, from landfills full of waste to unpredictable weather. In 2023, only 37% of Americans say addressing climate change should be a top priority. Gain perspective and resolve to help.

How to Reconnect with Nature

Reconnecting with nature can take various forms. Here are the simplest ways that you can go back to your roots and experience the environment.

1. Go on a Nature Walk

Reconnect with the living world by going on a nature walk. Try to pick a trail and look at the environment, lingering in the pathways to check out every tree and rock. Remember to keep your phones in your pockets and slow down as you survey the great outdoors. Take breaks in between and just contemplate about anything under the sun.

2. Have a Picnic by the Water

Go on the perfect picnic by the water. Whether heading to a lake or a beach, bring a blanket and pillow to make the stay more comfortable. Have fruits and vegetables and just enjoy the moment. Remember to utilize reusable containers and cutlery to avoid waste. You can invite a loved one to share the experience with you or go alone to enjoy the quiet.

3. Arrange a Retreat

Repair your relationship with nature through a retreat with like-minded people. You get to explore your personal strengths and motivations while gaining insight from the community around you. Remember to give words of wisdom to your fellow companions as well while enjoying all the surroundings.

4. Promote Biophilic Design

Rather than destroying trees and waterways, public spaces should work around them to keep these living objects alive. Support buildings that prioritize the greenery around them with biophilic design. You can also be vocal about how there should be more locations with this kind of design with your family and friends to move the cause along.

5. Take Care of a Houseplant

Reconnecting with nature could also mean bringing the environment indoors. Learn to take care of a houseplant or two. The spider plant is among the easiest plants to take care of as they aren’t picky about light or water needs unlike other options. Beginners would also appreciate bromeliads and holiday cactus for their bright blooms.

Find Yourself in Nature

Reconnecting with nature means more than seeing the greenery and bodies of water around you. It means learning to appreciate the natural beauty of the ecosystem around you and how humans have cultivated life around it. Learn to engage with nature and find yourself in the process.