Wellness Corner 7: Appreciating Nature

Dear reader,

Hello again, and happy 2022! This is the first time this year that I’m writing the Wellness Corner, and it feels great to be back. 

Nature nurtures us from day one: the water we drink, the food we eat, the air we breathe, and so much more all are gifts of nature. Many of us enjoy spending time in nature, whether that be via exercise, a leisurely walk, or otherwise. Taking breaks in the great outdoors has been proven to have a positive impact on our mental health. And we’re super lucky here at Kinkaid to have our own Backyard, which provides several opportunities for students to enjoy time in nature. 

Some communities have ways to appease, worship, thank, and seek benediction from the Earth/nature, and it’s truly beautiful to see how they appreciate the world around them. Members of the indigenous Andean community worship nature as Pachamama, the mother goddess, who is endowed with the power to sustain or destroy life on Earth. By offering a small natural token of appreciation (whether that be sugar, incense, or even coca leaves), they gain an audience with Pachamama and pay their gratitude and respects.

Try your own version of this ritual: gathering some flowers, nuts, or fruits, finding a quiet, clean place outside, uttering a few words of thanks, and leaving your offering there. You could name a few things that you’re grateful for or hoping for— nothing is too small or too big. Feel the weight of obligation and of all the “tasks” you have to do rise off of your shoulders and take a few deep breaths. I hope you find this exercise rewarding and calming. 

Thank you for reading!

Stay well,

Eshaan