Finding Balance in Nature in an Unbalanced Time
I have come to really appreciate how being outside, especially in the forest helps my mood and ability to find healthy balance in this unbalanced time.
We spent the first two weeks of March in quarantine and were allowed to go out for hour long walks. Fortunately I live in a small community that borders a great deal of green space. We looked for empty parking lots by the trails so we would be alone. Four weeks later I am still heading to the woods or open trails for a place of sanctuary. Being outside is making this restricted experience manageable.
Walking in the woods is for me like receiving a blast of oxygen. The smell of the musty earth, cedar trees, is a familiar smell from my childhood and offers a feeling of comfort and “home”. When I am stressed I go outside. The wind in the woods has an immediate calming effect on me, and if there is water lapping on a shoreline as well this sends me to my happy place.
During this time of “staying home” and social isolation I have continued to walk and am mindful and respectful of this process. Keeping my distance from others, going to places where there are fewer people. If I do walk with someone we are careful to walk a hockey stick – 2 metres apart – 6 feet.
Running the trails provides a runner a great variety in the running experience, variety of hills, roots, to challenge and better landing for the knees.
A dog is a wonderful companion and can be a great excuse to get exercise for both of you. Having a dog allowed me to explore some wonderful trails in my community I would never have enjoyed without a dog. Humans alone are always welcome on these trails.
Is it hiking or walking? If I am climbing hills on narrow trails, to me it’s hiking.
My interest in the woods has expanded to develop an interest in bird-watching. It is the silence of the forest I enjoy with the interruption of a crow, or other birds that speak to each other, or perhaps to me to let me know that they see me. I live where eagles reside and there is something very majestic about watching an eagle soar over the tree line against a background of a bright blue sky. Very humbling.
I love this activity because I am able to do it year round. In the winter I can still go to the park trails, now snow-covered or go snow-shoeing which takes the quiet of the woods to a whole new level.
I haven’t always lived near the woods so in the city I have sought out neighbourhoods with tree lined streets, parks, shorelines that provide a nice substitute. What is important is to get fresh air, exercise and to break up the routine.
I always take with me my copper bottle of water. Bringing water inspires me to walk further, the idea being I have water I can push the distance. Included in the pocket or pack is a phone, a small snack – nuts, energy bar; a whistle if in woods in bear season. Good foot wear, especially for challenging trails makes a big difference. You are safer over rough terrain and have better support. On city streets they save your knees and feet.
When I am outside on my own I am seeking to calm the worries or work out problems that are too loud in my head. Even though there may be sound around me I am able to do the mind work I need. I also enjoy stopping and appreciating the moment. The whistle of a bird; an old tree; a flower; a view, a building. I can then return to my seclusion space in a much better mood.
Giving peace a chance, starts within our minds. Being outside helps me find peace.
Michele B.
Contributor
If you want to stay in the loop and read new blog posts as soon as they're posted, like our Facebook page here. That's always the best way to access our columnists' helpful content, automatically delivered straight to your Facebook feed.
