Kevin, one of our new Utah listeners and I had a discussion. One of the things we talked about is that many people give up on spirituality as they don’t want to be religious so they throw the baby out with the bath water. But spirituality and religion don't have to go hand in hand. Kevin talks about his spirituality and how it comes from being in nature. Kevin is not alone in this; many people who do not follow religion find their spirituality in nature. Some who are religious, strengthen their spirituality through nature. But for many people in this day and age it is tough and we spend very little time in nature. Spirituality is a big part of your human existence. So is yours filled?

The 6 wellness buckets are

Because of Kevin's question we are going to discuss bucket number 6. Spirituality! Now I am very spiritual and also quite religious. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I did want you to know that, but we are not going to be concentrating on religion. If you have questions about my religion you can ask me, I am happy to answer. Now back to spirituality. For this discussion we are going to define spirituality as a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves, it typically involves a search for meaning in life. This makes it a universal human experience. You can describe it as a deep sense of aliveness and interconnectedness. How do you meet that need without religion you may ask?

First is to get out into nature which is great. This can be done by taking a hike through a forest or other natural area. But it might not come at the back of a tow rope on water skis, riding on a motorcycle, or ATV. Fast and loud are fun and entertaining but they most often do not engender quiet contemplation. What you want to look for is more than just the beauty, but the more of the connection. What does nature tell you about yourself? For me it tells me of my importance. Just thinking about the trillions of things that had to happen in one certain way to bring about this environment helps me to visualize my worth and connectedness. If I am connected to each rock tree and plant out there it changes how I react to this world. If we are one, this earth and I, it creates responsibilities  and meaning for me. There is even a book by Florence Williams called the “ The Nature Fix” They did a biological study to see the effects on your body and brain. They were able to observe that within 5 mins changes started to happen in the body. Is more connection, meaning, happiness, less stress and better health worth five mins a day? Maybe you live in a city and you say it would take me more than a hour to get out to nature. Well many places have parks within a few mins of most neighborhoods. Most apartments have grass areas with trees. Going out being barefoot on the grass or leaning against a tree can give you that five min change. If it is important to you, you can find it. You can make it happen. Nature has many positive effects if you are willing to be a part of it.

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