Nature and Spiritual Reflection

You're sitting in the grass with a light breeze brushing on your face. Your eyes and mind are focused on the lake out in front of you, surrounded by the sea of trees. The sun is setting, painting the sky, and you hear the frogs start their nightly song. And you realize, this is just nature doing its thing, doing what it does best. Even though this is an experience I unfortunately have never gotten to live yet, it is definitely an amazing way to describe the type of person I want to be, mentally, physically, and even spiritually. Nature is a place that allows space for reflection and inner peace. And with that being said, this blog is here for a helpful reminder that nature and God will always be there for you.

Getting through the day-to-day, restless, loud life is a difficult task. The best start to help yourself gain that peace and stillness you're looking for is to just acknowledge your thoughts and ways you can calm them. Even if some of you think it, technology does not help and never will. Yes, maybe listening to a fireplace on YouTube does some magic for you, but it will never be as stimulating as the real, present sounds of nature. You not only hear it, but you can feel it, you can smell it, and you can see it for what it truly is.

Whenever I am with nature, I always feel this spiritual connection. A connection with God and his creation of the world that deepens just by being out there. I feel like nature allows me to get everything out, and it guides me and comforts me. Nature never asks anything from you; it's a place big enough to expand whatever it is that's crowding your mind. It has such a go-with-the-flow vibe that just lets you do the same. Nature has a way of teaching you things that nothing else can; it teaches you patience, growth, and even letting go.

Some people love to just sit in nature and take it all in, while others need something to do while they are out there. I would consider myself someone who needs something to do, so here are some options:

• Journaling

• Reading (book or bible)

• Go for a walk

• Paint or draw

• Write some poems or stories

• Have a bonfire and roast some s'mores

Even if you are someone who can't get out much, there are always ways to bring nature inside. Open your windows to let the sunlight in or place plants around your house. Just remember that when you can, take at least five minutes to just sit outside, take some deep breaths, and let yourself connect with God.