Have you ever noticed your mood when it’s a beautiful day outside? You have more energy, you’re smiling and laughing, and you feel like giving random people high fives in the halls at work.

 

Have you ever noticed your mood when it’s a beautiful day outside? You have more energy, you’re smiling and laughing, and you feel like giving random people high fives in the halls at work. It’s almost as if you are a new person coming out of hibernation to enjoy the spring weather. Sometimes it takes a cold and bitter winter for us to really appreciate the beauty of spring.

I love how nature and the outdoors represent so much of what God embodies. Everywhere you turn you can see God’s work. For me, being outside and experiencing nature is how I connect best with God. I feel His presence in nature. It’s easy to forget the beauty that is all around us when we are consumed with the hustle and bustle of life.

But when I take time to experience his creation, I’m able to relax and reflect on all the things God created in this world. I can look at an insect and realize that every life is significant to God because He created it and no issue of mine is too small to bring to Him.

Taking time to be outside may be one of my main ways to connect with God, but it’s scientifically proven to improve your overall health.

Nature Boosts the Immune System - When we breathe in fresh air, we are breathing in chemicals that plants give off to protect themselves from insects. As a result, our bodies produce a cell that kills off other viruses and tumor infected cells in our bodies.

It Helps Fight Depression and Anxiety - exposure to green space can ease anxiety, depression and other mental health issues by improving self-esteem and mood.

It Improves Ability to Focus - Our lives are busier than ever, and it can be mentally draining, focusing on so many activities at once. Spending time in nature gives the cognitive portion of our brain a break and acts as a recharge.

It definitely Reduces Stress - Time spent in nature lowers levels of cortisol, which is a hormone often used as a marker for stress.

This doesn’t mean you have to travel to the mountains to see these benefits for yourself. Start planning out your week. Try to schedule time once a week, and find some green space near where you live to recharge your mind.

It is so important for everyone to find a vertical connection that brings them closest to God. Whatever that may look like for you, find it, and use it! What’s your passion? What are you good at? Where do you find peace? How do you escape the chaos of this fast-paced world? Chances are, you can find God in all of those things.

Love light & Peace ~ Hari Om Tat Sat ~ Jai Bholenath!