Are You Getting Enough Vitamin N?
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein
We're all aware of the health benefits of getting enough of Vitamin D, but do you remember to get enough Vitamin N?
This important supplement is scientifically proven to lower heart rate and blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, boost the immune system, raise self esteem and improve overall health, including enhancing the balance between body, mind and spirit. Deficiencies in Vitamin N are even linked to ADHD in children. City dwellers may be at the highest risk.
Of course, the "N" stands for Nature! Doctors are prescribing "nature breaks" as stress therapy for their patients. "Forest bathing" has become popular in Japan and around the world, and Eco-therapy has been found to provide unparalleled health benefits. Studies have been performed to measure reactivity of pulse, blood pressure and brain activity to both natural and man-made visuals, sounds, smells and touch. Nature environments showed lowered concentrations of cortisol, lowered pulse rates and blood pressure, higher mental concentration levels, greater parasympathetic nerve activity, and lower sympathetic nerve activity (i.e., fight or flight response) than city environments. One study with diabetic patients indicated lower blood glucose levels while walking in nature.
In my Medical Intuitive practice, stress is the most common health risk I see, and the health-giving benefits of nature is often misunderstood or minimized. We find ourselves glued to our computers for hours on end, or bogged down in a myriad of tasks. We'll choose to watch television or browse social media to wind down, which is only more stimulation to the nervous system. Self-care regimens can even feel stressful if you can't get to your yoga class or do your morning meditation practice. So, how many of us remember to take a few minutes out of our day to sit under a tree... enjoy fresh air... take a short walk... These simple activities are extremely healing to our minds, bodies and souls.
When I worked in the corporate world, I would make a point to find the nearest neighborhood park and have a picnic lunchtime at least a couple of days a week. The break from ringing phones, business chat and the pressures of the job was invaluable. I was able to come back to my desk refreshed and centered, as if I'd had a mini-vacation.
Another extremely useful way to connect with nature is the practice of Grounding. This easy visualization technique connects our physical body with the healing energy of the earth. Click to read more about How To Ground Your Energy, and check out the Energy Essentials™ Guided Meditation Series for an audio guide to help you learn this practical skill.
Today, see if you can make time to take a quick Vitamin N break in your busy day. Get outside and walk around the neighborhood. Notice if there are clouds in the sky, touch a tree leaf or a blade of grass, breathe in the scent of a blooming flower. Appreciate and enjoy our lovely planet full of healing nature.
Until next time, stay inspired!
Warmly,
Wendie
Wendie Colter, MCWC, CMIP is the founder/CEO of The Practical Path, Inc. For information on The Practical Path® Medical Intuitive Training™ and the Medical Intuition for Healing Workshop™, please visit The Practical Path or call 877-433-6611.
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