How to Connect with Nature this Spring
One of the best things about Spring, is that it brings with it a feeling of rebirth, renewal, and growth. It's a season awakens from its winter slumber. As humans, we are deeply connected to nature, and we too can benefit from the energy of springtime.
Simple Tips to Connect to Nature this Spring
1. One of the simplest ways to connect with Spring is to spend more time outside. The days are longer, the weather is milder, and nature is coming into full bloom. Take advantage of this time to go for a walk or hike, practice yoga or meditation with the window open, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings - wherever you find yourself throughout the day.
2. Ayurveda suggests that we should really pay attention to the foods we eat, no matter the season. But during the Spring, it's a time when our digestive fire (agni), is naturally weaker, so we should focus on eating light, fresh, and easy-to-digest foods. Incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables into our diet is a great way to do this. We can also take advantage of the abundance of spring greens like spinach, kale, and chard, which are packed with nutrients and have a cleansing effect on the body - try to have them lightly cooked. Avoiding raw foods during this time as they require a little more work from your digestive system.
3. Another way to connect with nature is to start a garden. Gardening, on my goals list, is a wonderful way to get in touch with the natural world and to connect with the rhythms of the season. Even if you don't have a lot of outdoor space, you can still grow herbs or small plants indoors. You'll be amazed at how much joy and satisfaction you can get from watching something grow and thrive. Herbs like basil are easy starter plants to get you into the flow of things.
4. In addition to gardening, we can also connect with nature through our senses. Take a moment to stop and smell the flowers, listen to the birds singing, or feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. These simple pleasures can have a profound impact on our mood and sense of well-being. And honestly, it's the easiest of things to do. Just be mindful of your surroundings.
5. Pranayama, or breathwork, is another great practice to have. One powerful pranayama technique for the Spring season is called kapalabhati, or "skull-shining breath." This technique involves quick, forceful exhales that help to clear out the respiratory system and energize the body. Practicing kapalabhati regularly can help to reduce seasonal allergies, clear out stagnant energy, and increase mental clarity.
As with most things, there are cautions to this practice. If you start feeling dizzy or faint, stop immediately. Avoid if you are pregnant and/or have a tendency for either low or high blood pressure.
6. Finally, we can connect with nature by embracing the spirit of Spring in our daily lives. Spring is a time of growth, renewal, and forward movement. We can take inspiration from this energy by setting new goals and intentions for ourselves, and by taking action towards manifesting our dreams. Whether it's starting a new project, taking a class, or simply making a small change in our daily routine, we can use the energy of Spring to propel us forward towards our goals.
Connecting with nature is an essential part of living a healthy and balanced life, and Spring is the perfect time to do so. By spending more time outside, eating light and fresh foods, starting a garden, engaging our senses, practicing pranayama, and embracing the spirit of Spring, we can tap into the energy and vitality of the season and feel renewed in both our body and mind.
Ayurveda offers a wealth of wisdom and practices that can help us to deepen our connection with nature and to live in harmony with the natural rhythms of the season. Find out the prominent energies you posses in your body and mind with a Seasonal Guidance Session.
