I’ve been thinking a lot about nature and the healing community.

What does one have to do with the other? Well, it’s not unusual to find references to nature in all walks of healing work. And usually the references imply that nature is something found in rural settings or somewhere other than an urban environment.

I don’t agree. Nature is everywhere, Nature isn’t a place we go, it’s the place where we are – no matter where that happens to be. Connecting to nature is about connecting to energy, the vibration of life all around you.

Sure we all have our preferences, those places that resonate with us and instill a sense of connection, a oneness with life and the world around us. But that’s not the same as ‘nature’.

Nature is not a phenomena found only in the county, or in the woods or in the mountains. Nature is all around you, no matter where you are. Nature is the pulse, the heartbeat of the earth and you are part of it. Nature isn’t a place you go, it’s the place you are.

“…man is nature and if we are trying to instill ethical relationships between humans, we need to have that same relationship with our natural world.” ~~~Mark Biedron

As a Feng Shui practitioner and teacher I am often reminded that Feng Shui is deeply connected to the patterns and cycles in nature. In spring, plants send out new shoots and seeds sprout new life. In summer nature is at its fullest expression of life – the plants are lush and colorful. In fall nature begins to gather its energy in preparation for the deep hibernation and restoration that occurs in winter. When we live our lives in alignment with the natural energy patterns around us, our bodies are synchronized and in balance with nature. We are healthier and happier.

To connect to nature begin by being aware of it.

1. Honor the changing seasons.
2. Bring the energy of nature indoors by opening your curtains and windows.
3. Wake up later and go to bed earlier to align with the natural energy of winter – follow the pattern of the sun.
4. Take a walk and observe the life around you, whether it’s the hustle and bustle of a city or the calm quiet of the country – both are built upon the energy and pulse of Nature.
5. Create a spot of beauty and vibrant energy in your home by purchasing a plant or flowers.

Nature, it’s about making a connection to the energy around you. It’s not about ‘going’ somewhere, it’s about connecting to where you are. Nature is all around you, all you have to do is notice.

Embrace the life around you, it’s waiting!

Author's Bio: 

Laurie Bornstein is a Feng Shui coach, author, speaker and teacher. Her business, Harmony Life LLC, blends methods and techniques from holistic design, the principles of Feng Shui and the power of life coaching. Laurie is one of the 12 teachers in the world certified to teach beginning and advanced Interior Alignment and to teach and certify new Interior Alignment teachers. She is one of the original Interior Alignment Board members and remains actively involved as a member of the Advisory Board. Laurie is active in the International Feng Shui Guild where she serves as both the CEO and the Education Director; working to establish standards for practitioners and schools within the Feng Shui community. Laurie Bornstein, Professional Interior Alignment Feng Shui Teacher, Author, Speaker, Life Coach and Business on Purpose Marketing Expert. Offering Interior Alignment Certification, seminars, one-on-one and group coaching for Feng Shui professionals, and women entrepreneurs.