Being in nature might not seem like the most obvious place to begin when you want to experience a greater sense of community, but more and more the evidence shows that as you connect to nature and the natural world has a multitude of benefits that support overall well-being and a sense of belonging. Spending more time in nature has proven positive effects for health and wellness.
From forest bathing to adopting an environmentally-friendly lifestyle, from taking a walk in the woods to adventure challenges in nature, there are activites to suit every personality type. Facilitating this connection to the authentic you lies at the very heart of True Center’s mission, and October events support you.
Along the Spiral of Connection that includes five connection points to a deepening sense of community and belonging, the fourth point of connection invites you to connect to nature.
October events at True Center support you in cultivating community by connecting to nature. Our Meditation Walk on Saturday, October 20, is one example.
>>> Browse All True Center Events Here <<<
Hidden Barriers to Connecting to Nature as a Way to Experience Greater Community and Belonging
It may seem, for those of us who live in subdivisions or other communities, that getting out into nature requires significant planning and time. But, in fact, it can be as simple as stepping outside and discovering nature close to you.
In Woodstock and Cherokee County, we are fortunate to have an abundance of parks, nature trails, and other outdoor opportunities that put us in proximity to the natural world. The extensive Greenprints Trail System in the county is designed specifically to promote wellness and connect the community through outdoor activities and living. Other events, such as local farmer’s markets, provide opportunities to learn about our environment and sustainable ways of living.
“It is important to tend the whole garden so that the entire system is nurtured and flourishes. Because we are all connected we must not overlook any aspect of the whole or the entire system will suffer. To connect to community, connect to nature and the natural world.” ~ Eve Willson
3 Practical Ways to Connect to Nature and the Natural World
Cultivating and tending to the whole garden of our lives does take effort. How can we take practical steps to connect to nature for a deeper, more fulfilling experience of community?
#1—Demonstrate respect and compassion toward the Earth. Activities such as recycling and keeping the places where we live and work clean and beautiful help us to better recognize our connection to the world around us and how this affects the quality of our lives. Modeling this respect goes a long way into creating a better world.
#2—Embrace a sustainable lifestyle. Begin by learning more about our environment and the Earth that sustains us. This is a great activity to share with family and friends. Adopt new ways of being that are in harmony with and honor natural and shared resources.
#3—Be in nature as often as you can. Meet up with friends for a weekly walk on a local nature trail. Notice the trees, water, earth, and sky. As you consider all the components of nature that work together to sustain us, allow yourself to feel the love and gratitude. Let this deep appreciation be a shared joy with others in your community.
Be sure to join us for the kick-off Community Conversation and free pizza lunch on October 2 to discuss more ways to cultivate connections to community.
Leave a Reply