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You don’t have to go on a mountain retreat or spa wellness retreat in order to get grounded. Often your own back yard is the ideal place to start reuniting with nature and yourself.

Beginning a nature habit is all about adding small things to your life on a regular basis — fresh air, birdsong, and sun on your skin undistracted.

Try to step outside barefoot for five minutes early in the morning. This simple exercise will ground your energy and calm your nervous system.

Plant some vegetables or herbs, even in containers. Having your own crops, even in small amounts, gives a great sense of appreciation for what you ultimately consume.

It’s a practice to leave your smoothie or tea on the table, away from the screens. Use that time to breathe slowly and immerse yourself in the sounds, smells, and colors around you.

Stretch or do light yoga in the grass. Opening your body up to the outdoor air lets in fresh oxygen and sunlight that enhance mood and immunity.

Put out a little bird feeder or water dish. Seeing birds or butterflies flutter about is a comfortable feeling and sense of closeness to nature hard to achieve indoors.

When the sun goes down, get outside once more and gaze up at the sky. A couple of peaceful minutes outside at the end of the day allows your mind to relax and sleep to wake up more readily.

Consistency is more important — perfection is not necessary. Five or ten mindful minutes a day outside can establish a powerful, long-term wellness habit of peace, presence, and nature.

CONCLUSION

Creating a nature-based wellness practice is not about radical changes — a bit of intention and a few minutes a day in nature. Your own backyard can be a peaceful refuge where you reconnect with your body, calm your mind, and feel more centered.