Step Outside

Let’s talk about self care…

I know, I know. It is all we hear about. We know about self care. We are very aware of what we need to do to feel better. We know the various programmes, products and memberships that are out there that promise they will make us feel better, we know we need to take time for ourselves and do self care stuff and it is on our to do list but that list is long and it’ll take a while to get to this particular ‘to do’.

The term ‘self care’ is so very present in our lives and we are aware that taking time for ourselves is a good thing so why then does it sometimes make us feel worse? Why, when this is about our own wellbeing, do we feel overwhelmed at the prospect of self care? Why does it feel like another pressure or expectation that we struggle to meet?

The answer is simple really.

It is because self care has become an industry. A very important one, a valuable one even, but a difficult one to navigate with so many voices in the mix telling you what to do, telling you what to buy. It can feel like a burden.

But here’s the thing, self-care is simply about taking care of ourselves and it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s not about adding more to your already lengthy to-do list. In fact, true self-care is accessible, free, and available to you just as you are.

For us to talk about this further, I need to tell you about Edward Osborne Wilson. E O Wilson was an American biologist, naturalist, ecologist, and entomologist known for developing the field of sociobiology and did many things throughout his life, one of which was coining the phrase ‘Biophilia Theory’. His research has helped us to understand that humans possess an inherent connection with nature. Wilson introduced this concept in his 1984 book “Biophilia,” arguing that our physical and mental health is intrinsically linked to nature. Even if we don’t recognise or have an awareness of it, human beings are always drawn to seek connections with the natural world. It is in this connection that we create space enough to discover more about who we are and what we need.

When surrounded by the tranquility of a forest, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing on the shore, or the gentle rustle of leaves in a breeze, we tap into a deep well of authenticity within ourselves. Away from the distractions of busy lives, we can shed the layers of societal expectations and rediscover our truest, most authentic selves. This is self care.

So, self-care isn’t about a complicated routine or a hefty price tag. It’s as simple as stepping outside, engaging your senses, and taking a deep breath. Nature provides the canvas for reconnecting with your true self, embracing simplicity, and unlocking the door to authenticity. Amid the demands of life, the Biophilia Theory stands as a gentle reminder – our roots are intertwined with the natural world, offering a timeless essence for our well-being.

Nature is not just an external environment but an integral part of our identity. Scientifically, exposure to nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being. When we venture outdoors, we engage our senses in a way that stimulates a primal connection, awakening a sense of authenticity that may lie dormant in the urban chaos.

Incorporating nature into our lives isn’t just a leisurely activity; it’s a means of rekindling the flame of authenticity within. Whether it’s a leisurely walk through the fields, a run up over the hills, or simply sitting by a lake, these experiences allow us to reconnect with our true selves and embrace the simplicity and authenticity that nature effortlessly embodies.

In a world that often pulls us away from our genuine selves, the Biophilia Theory serves as a gentle reminder – our roots are intertwined with the natural world. By embracing this connection, we can unlock the door to our authentic selves, fostering a harmonious balance between the demands of modern life and the timeless essence of our true nature.

Self care demands nothing of you – not your money, not your perfection, not all of your energy. Self care is as simple as stepping outside, engaging your senses and taking a deep breath. This is all we need.

Michelle Leeder
Michelle Leeder is part of the Wild & Other family. She is a psychotherapist, trainer and consultant.