Recurrent headaches, tiredness, discouragement, reluctance and even anxiety… The lack of “green” or, in its more scientific meaning, the “lack of contact with nature«, can have physical and mental consequences that are often attributed to other factors, but that in reality have to do with that vital need that connects with our ancestors: feeling the breeze on your face, hearing the crunch of branches when walking or the singing of birds, letting yourself be intoxicated by sour and at the same time sweet vegetal aromas, drinking fresh water after an intense walk…
Nature has always been an essential part of human life, but in recent decades there has been a distancing due to a sedentary lifestyle marked by comfort, hyperconnection to screens and electronic devices, hyper-demanding work and limited time flexibility. And although there are no specific clinical signs that indicate a “nature deficit”, various health problems such as lack of vitamin Dthe hyperactivity, he asthma and the obesitycould be linked to this disconnection with the natural environment. “This distancing not only impacts our personal well-being, but also our relationship with the environment and the planet, underscoring the importance of reconnecting with nature to improve both our health and that of the ecosystem,” says Marta Ayats, the expert in tropical medicine. health and emotional ecology that advises on Alohacamp.
In fact, there are many scientific studies that refer to the positive influence of regular contact with nature on people’s health. As Ayats recalls, its effects have been observed both physically and psychologically: from a decrease in heart rate or blood pressure to the balance of blood glucose levels in non-insulin-dependent diabetics, through the reduction of levels of stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, rumination and mental fatigue.
Furthermore, as Ayats points out, the “green” experience Habitual activity contributes to the increase in ‘natural killer’ (NK) cells, responsible for fighting infections. It also helps to enhance mood, the feeling of vitality and psychological well-being, creativity and the ability to solve problems.
Effects on cortisol
Its approach is especially interesting in the cases of those people with chronically high levels of cortisolthe stress hormone, since this state sustained over time can not only weaken the immune system, increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease, but can also increase the risk of suffering from sleep disorders and depression. “Spending time in contact with nature, even for just 20-30 minutes, significantly reduces cortisol levels, helping to relieve stress,” says Ayats, who also contributes that contact with nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system and decreases the activity of sympathetic nervous systemwhich is responsible for the stress response.
Natural sounds, observing a natural landscape and disconnecting from urban stimuli also contribute to this, as the Alohacamp advisor explains, as they induce a state of mental calm and contribute to restoring attention.
Disconnect to reconnect
There are many people who live in urban environments with their backs to natural environments. However, as Ayats proposes, it is actually possible to reconnect with nature in a simple way by visiting parks, gardens, or any urban green space. “Integrate small doses of nature in our daily routinesuch as walking through a nearby park, observing the sky or growing plants at home, can have a significant impact on our well-being,” he says.
As the expert advises, some simple activities can be significant:
– Open the window when you wake up and contemplate the darling breathing deeply and feeling how the air enters the body with each inhalation or noticing the temperature of the sun on the skin.
– Observe and draw each sunset It can also be a beautiful way to connect with nature.
– Walk over to that little local park and sit on a bench to just be present and observing what happens around us, repeating this experience day after day, is an effective way to establish a bond with the environment.
Furthermore, the use of natural sounds or aromatherapy with forest essences can help reconnect with nature.
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Gradual disconnection: Do not try to disconnect suddenly. Make a gradual process of reducing cell phone use or social media use.
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Morning routines: Wake up without technology, using the light of dawn or natural sounds like birdsong to start your day. The digital alarm can be made of nature sounds that you like. See how your energy and mood change when you wake up without a digital alarm.
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Daily technology fast: Dedicate at least one hour each day to being completely device-free. Use that time to practice sensory connection activities with nature or one of the ones offered below.
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Conscious walks at sunrise or sunset: Leave your cell phone and headphones at home and go for a conscious walk for 20-30 minutes. These times of the day offer the opportunity to enjoy natural light, which is soft and relaxing.
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Take advantage of the silence and tranquility of these moments for a complete disconnection. Pay attention to the sensation of the ground on your feet, listening to the sounds of the environment and observing the landscape. At some point during the walk you can take off your shoes and walk on the grass, sand or dirt, feeling direct contact with the ground.
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Take a moment during the day to pause and go to a natural environment that is close to your home or work, where you can return regularly and feel comfortable. Stay there for about 15-20 minutes doing nothing, just focusing on the details of the environment.
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Nature diary: Carry a notebook with you where you record your thoughts, reflections or drawings about nature during the detox, replacing the need to use your cell phone and share it on social networks. You can use it while you are in the Txoko.
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Tea or coffee in nature: Carry a small cup of tea or coffee with you and make that moment a special moment. Go to a quiet place outdoors to enjoy it without rushing, letting your natural environment be your only “company” at that moment. Or if you prefer, share that moment in that environment with family or friends
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Weekly forest bathing: Dedicate about two hours a week to forest bathing, preferably with a guide, to tune in to nature through a sensory and emotional connection.
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Nature at home: During your forest baths or walks, collect natural items such as stones, leaves, fallen flowers or twigs, and place them in a special corner of your home or workspace. This space will allow you to maintain a constant connection with nature, offering a moment of calm every time you observe it or touch objects when you need a break.
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Sunbathing: Without devices or headphones, take some time to absorb the natural sunlight. Whether walking or sitting, feel the temperature on your skin and see how the light changes your environment
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Mindful Eating: Before each meal, completely disconnect from any electronic devices. Take a moment to carefully observe the food in front of you: pay attention to the colors, the arrangement on the plate, the textures and the aroma. Mentally thank the origin of each ingredient and eat slowly, savoring each bite with full awareness.
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Reflect at the end of the day: At least an hour before going to bed, turn off or disconnect any electronic device within reach and spend a few minutes reflecting on your feelings during the detox. Remember three positive things that happened during the day. And write it in your nature journal.
Furthermore, the Alohacamp advisor invites people to share their experiences during exposure to nature with groups of friends, their partner or family, because this not only facilitates the integration of what has been experienced, but also encourages interaction and group cohesion. “These group activities strengthen the sense of belonging and purpose, improving interpersonal relationships and, as a result, promoting mental health and general well-being,” reveals Ayat.
Likewise, depending on the connection activities with nature that are scheduled and the way in which they are carried out, their impact on social health may vary, contributing significantly to the construction of support networks and the creation of significant links between participants. .
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