Bringing the Outside Inside
Being outside is so good for the body and soul.
I’m no scientist, and I’m not using any citations here, but I do know off the top of my head that sunshine is good for the body, clean outdoor air is refreshing for the brain, the sounds of nature are soothing to the senses, and the beauty of nature is inspiring to the mind. Nature inspires empathy, awe, healing, and connection.
I’m remembering back in COVID times when ideas abounded as people tried to figure out how to create connection while physically separated from one another. In an effort to stay connected, many of us spent more time on social media and on our phones and computers than we ever had before. I’m not faulting us for that! But I am wondering if we’ve scaled back yet. I certainly haven’t. And every time I hit my self-imposed phone time limit on Instagram, I am reminded of this. Right now, when each headline is more shocking than the last, I really need to be consuming more than just news. I need to be consuming life, oxygen, and the calm, steadying order of sunrise and sunset.
If you can, GET OUTSIDE. And if you can’t, let’s talk about a few ways we can bring the outside inside during these remaining winter months.
Cultivate a wild space. Create a little sanctuary spot in your home that reflects the beauty of the outdoors… a corner filled with plants, a table with shells and stones, or even just a few favorite nature photographs. Even better if you took them yourself! When you are reminded of the world outside, you are reminded that you are not alone.
Invite the wilderness into your senses. Nature isn’t just visual of course… it’s sound, smell, taste, and touch! Open a window, even for a second, and breathe some outside air. Diffuse oils like cedar or eucalyptus. Create meals that use minimally processed foods, if they are available to you. Be thankful for every bite, and for the wonder of nature’s gifts.
Reflect on the lessons of nature. Each season has truth to teach us. Winter teaches us rest and resilience. Journal or meditate on these lessons, and think about how these rhythms might guide you.
Share with others. The wilderness is powerful when you share it with others. Do an indoor activity with friends inspired by nature like crafting, storytelling, or watching a nature documentary. Order a book and learn some new wilderness or survival skills. Plan a backpacking or hiking trip for later this year with one of our partners, like Wilderness Journeys!
Be inspired, and share with us how you’ve let the wilderness into your indoor world!
Christine Geeding
Board Member
