Money Doesn’t Grow On Trees; But Trees Are Like A Million Bucks For the Human Soul
Trees make this world a fabulous place.
“Everything in nature invites us constantly to be what we are.”
— Gretel Ehrlich
My first trip back to our tree farm after surviving breast cancer was like a breath of fresh air. I have to be honest; I wasn’t sure if I would ever make it back there again.
If you have been highly stressed or just not feeling like yourself, I highly recommend taking a trip involving nature. It’s the best medicine and feeds your soul.
The benefits of being in nature are numerous. Who’s ready to explore why a trip might be in order?
Might reduce the risk of illness
There is a great deal of research about urban green spaces and health.
“Immune systems may benefit from relaxation provided by the natural environment or through contact with certain physical or chemical factors in the green space.”
— Review of Evidence
There are plenty of reports published that reveal that exposure to green space reduces the risk of type II diabetes, premature death, stress and can even lower your blood pressure. I find these reports very fascinating.
Some wonderful green spaces to visit are places where the land is partly or completely covered with grass, trees, shrubs, or other vegetation. Green space also includes most parks, gardens, and even cemeteries.
Knowing these places could actually be good for your health, could be inspiring. Perhaps a break from the business of life, while having some fun in nature sounds good.
Might give your brain and body some much-needed downtime
Taking a trip to a place that is quiet and peaceful could definitely be a place to recharge.
Being overloaded with emails, texts or even phone calls daily can be stressful. Being able to multitask might sound talented. However, it can take a toll on your overall well-being.
Putting your phone on silent could just be the thing your mind and body are craving.
We are all guilty of being on our phones excessively at times. Do you find yourself ignoring your family or friends, once in a while?
How about giving those vacation companions your absolute undivided attention? Not only do they benefit but you might even break a bad habit along the way.
Might help your vitamin D level
Who needs to get outside for some much-needed vitamin D? Are you stuck in an office all day or your home? How about others in your family? If you have kids, are they behind their computer or gaming council most of the day?
If you are anything like me, sometimes I need to know the health benefits of something before I will try it. Did you know that vitamin D; which we can get from the sun, can maximize calcium absorption? It also promotes bone and dental health.
It can also impact your mood in a positive way while reducing the risk of cancer and several other diseases. Vitamin D has many benefits, to say the least. It can even aid in lowering your blood pressure.
Who knew that giving yourself a twenty-minute break in a lawn chair, while relaxing next to a tree could better your health? Sounds fantastic to me.
Might reduce your stress hormone
Research has shown that gardening can lower your levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Therefore, I’m imagining the same would be true for cooking over the campfire if you love to cook.
What are some of those outdoor activities that you love? Could taking a scenic hike be just the thing you need?
The possibility of relaxing activities to do outdoors is endless. When was the last time you went fishing along a beautiful river?
How about taking a nature walk with a child and collecting exciting finds?
My favorite thing to do while camping is honestly, just sitting near the campfire while letting the sun do its thing. It’s like a gentle hug.
Might help you get a good night’s sleep
Getting a nice dose of sunlight without overdoing it, can also help you feel refreshed and relaxed. This can help regulate your body’s melatonin production.
Melatonin is a hormone that controls your body’s internal clock – the melatonin-producing part of your brain, which is directly affected by light.
The right amount of melatonin ensures that you have a good night’s sleep and wake feeling refreshed.
I hope you feel a tug to escape for a much-deserved trip to those green spaces outdoors.
Bottom line
The hustle and bustle of life can leave us feeling depressed, anxious, and just plain worn out.
I hope you find a way to spend more time outside in nature. It might not be your thing, but how will you know if you don’t try? It could simply be a walk in the park or an entire camping trip.
There is nothing like being out in nature and letting the sun shine down on your face. The warmth seems to soothe your soul.
There are so many beautiful colors of foliage; it seems unmeasurable. Some of which; house the loveliest birds, who enjoy singing sweet melodies to our ears.
The sounds and smells of dinner over an open flame. Pans clanking, food sizzling, and sweet corn roasting. Let’s not forget those s’mores and the laughter of companions by a campfire.
The coyotes howling in the distance gives your body a natural dose of energy. Who doesn’t need that?
The vast array of stars reminds you just how small you really are and your worries slowly drift away.
When your head hits the pillow, you will suddenly be in a self-induced coma, brought on by the immeasurable benefits of nature. Are you up for a camping trip?
I’m writing this as a thank you note for the green spaces in my life where our family often visits. We just got back from a trip to Michigan with friends. We stayed in a cozy cabin next to a river. We saw eagles, woodpeckers, squirrels, and plenty of deer. The trees were gorgeous, the white birch especially.
I’m also want to thank Trista Signe Ainsworth for her nature-loving publication, Thank You Notes.