Nature's Therapeutic Benefits for Filipinas

Feeling stressed or burnt out lately? We all lead fast-paced, busy lives, juggling work and personal commitments. The answer to feeling better may be as simple as reconnecting with nature. In this blog post, we will discuss the therapeutic benefits of nature for Filipino women and how we can harness the healing power of nature in our daily lives.

What Nature Can Do For Your Well-Being

Studies show that spending time outdoors and engaging in nature-based activities help improve mental, physical, and cognitive health outcomes. Below, you’ll find 5 benefits of getting reacquainted with nature.

1. Clean, Fresh Air for Respiratory Health

Living in the city and commuting to work exposes us to air pollution, which can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. Escaping to nature provides a breath of fresh air, quite literally. The clean air helps reduce the risk of respiratory ailments and is, overall, simply good for our lungs!

2. Physical Wellness Through Movement

Nature encourages us to engage in physical activities, whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a trail or an exhilarating hike up a mountain. Any type or level of physical movement outdoors offers health benefits.  What matters is you get your body moving in a way that’s manageable for you.

3. Mental Restoration

Nature provides a welcome respite from a world of screens, notifications, and overstimulation. Nature is soothing and allows us to shut off our minds from the constant worries of everyday life. Spending time outdoors, amidst the gentle rustle of leaves or the rhythmic lapping of waves, can help us feel more relaxed and focused.

4. Improved Emotional Well-Being

Reconnecting with nature has been linked to reduced levels of anxiety and depression. Just simply looking at picturesque views lowers fear and stress. Nature has a way of uplifting our spirits and making us feel happier overall.

5. Better Sleep

Our bodies are attuned to the natural rhythms of day and night, a delicate balance governed by our circadian rhythms. Exposure to sunlight helps regulate these rhythms and signals our bodies when it’s time to wake and rest. By soaking in natural light during the day, we ensure a more restful and rejuvenating sleep at night.

Ways to Nurture Yourself With Nature

Here are ways you can reap the therapeutic benefits of nature.

Embark on Outdoor Adventures

Unplug from the digital world and embark on a nature retreat. By disconnecting from your devices, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of your natural surroundings and have a moment of solitude. You can hike up a mountain, meditate by the beach, or camp in a national park. Whatever activity you have in mind, having nature as your backdrop will leave you feeling revitalized.

Appreciate the Nature Around You

If you can’t go on regular vacations, you can always appreciate the nature that surrounds you. You can make the most out of your environment and transform day-to-day activities into fun experiences. For example, take a morning jog or walk your dog to a nearby park. Read a book under the shade of a tree. Plan a picnic with friends or family. Do yoga in your backyard. Even the most ordinary things and places can become beautiful with gratitude.

Try Gardening

During the pandemic, many people took up gardening as a hobby and have become self-proclaimed plantitas. If you haven’t jumped on the bandwagon yet, it’s time to give it a try! You don’t need a spacious backyard for this; you can start with a few plants on your small balcony or garage. Soon enough, you’ll experience the joy of watching your plants flourish under your care.

Embrace the Healing Powers of Nature

In essence, nature offers a holistic approach to our health. As Filipino women, we often wear many hats—from being caretakers and nurturers to being professionals and entrepreneurs. Our bodies also have distinct needs, especially through motherhood and menopause. 

Nature not only brings physical healing but also serves as a testament to the beauty and resilience of the feminine spirit. We hope these benefits and tips help you work towards living a healthier, happier life!