A Hidden Harmony

 

In the forest there is a hidden harmony, a sacredness — everything in an order where everything is the way it is and could not be anything else than what it is. Eckhart Tolle

One of the most meaningful connections we can make in this modern world is to revel in the great outdoors and connect with nature. My last walk in a forest was scaringly beautiful. I can’t wait to go again.

The next time you get the opportunity to visit a forest, treat yourself to some of these…

Stop and smell the flowers.

Wildflowers are everywhere. Simply head to a state park, local field, or grove of trees and hunt for spots of color. Be respectful: if you pick a flower, it won’t be available to produce seed for the next generation. Also, try not to trample the flowers for a selfie! Consider zooming in on a petal or seed pod and focusing on its unique markings.

Find feathered or furry friends.

It’s amazing to watch animals do what they do. There are creatures going about their lives all over the place — this is one of the things that make being outdoors endlessly fascinating. Walk REALLY slowly and look for areas of motion. That’s probably going to be a squirrel catching an acorn, a blue jay building a nest, or a mother deer walking with her babies. Sit still, don’t stare straight at them, and animals will often come close.

Climb into a kayak.

I’ll admit I haven’t tried this yet, but it’s on my bucket list. This is supposed to be a centering experience. Even in hard white water, people find calm and serenity. It is a way to inhabit the moment — breathing fresh air and using your muscles. Gliding on a lake or a lazy river is also an awesome way to get outside and out of your head.

Forage for food.

Foraging is the original multi-generational activity — ancient families gathered together. It’s better than hiking because you stop seeing the forest as a solid green wall and start seeing its details; morels, ramps, idebible flowers, fruits, berries, nuts. Don’t pick without permission — or try anything until a professional guide (there are many offering tours across the country) has told you it’s safe.

People-watch at the park.

I love watching runners flash by, or parents tend to little ones in strollers, or teenagers playing soccer and basketball. You feel a sense of connectedness when you’re surrounded by every stage of life. That’s community.

It is said that going out into nature is the equivalent of hitting the “reset” button. Try it for yourself — as often as you possibly can.