nature vs. stress

I feel like I blog a lot about stress. I guess I just can't stress the importance enough! (Pun totally intended) It's part of every day life for everyone. Your body sends stress signals when you are hungry, when you stub your big toe or when you are in rush-hour traffic. For many people though, stress is an unconscious constant state because our minds are careening out of control. Though most animals and primates automatically shut off their stress signals when they're not in immediate danger, the gift of our developed mind has also plagued us the chronic subconscious habit of worrying, anticipating and perseverating. How we deal with stress really does 'make-or-break' us and effect our overall health, so we can't keep ignoring it.

I was recently reading some of the diaries of good ol' Anne Frank. It's really amazing to think about such an intelligent young woman reflecting on her life, the people around her and basic human nature, all while grappling with world-altering events. Some of her thoughts and beliefs are downright profound, especially for a 14-year-old. Coping mechanisms are different for everyone, but I loved that one of her favorite ways to de-stress was to spend time in nature.

“The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and it certainly always will, I know that then there will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. And I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.” ― Anne Frank, The Diary of a Young Girl

You can find more of Anne's best quotes here.  

Sometimes, reading simple advice like this really helps me put my stress in perspective, so that's why I'm sharing it. If Anne Frank can cultivate peace through the beauty of nature, then certainly I should be able to as well. Have you tried seeking out a quiet spot in nature to clear your head? It doesn't have to be a completely private and silent spot to have an effect, but you can observe any small microcosm. Whether it's sitting inside, looking at your backyard, heading to a park to sit in the woods or practicing yoga outside, natural beauty has a way of showing us it's intricate perfection and making us and our troubles feel smaller by comparison. And spring is a perfect time to try it! :)

Intricate perfection and balance!