Did you know that trees release a natural compound, phytoncides, that can boost our immune health and stimulate our parasympathetic nervous system, causing us to relax?
In other words – trees help us to heal.
My journey from traditional schooling to teaching nature-based learning outdoors is also helping me to heal.
During our most recent adventure of making nature journals then exploring our environment to discover things to fill them with, a part of me healed.
Not only because the weather was spectacular and the trees played their part, but because I was privileged enough to witness each child give free reign to their curiosity and creativity.
We sat underneath chestnut trees, and we soon discovered that there were chestnuts everywhere! As we began to look closer, we found wild mushrooms, strawberries, and all types of insects. Some kiddos even designed a dragonfly out of twigs, leaves and chestnuts.
I say we, but really, I just followed in the wake of these wilderness explorers, astounded by their curiosity, careful observation, and desire to create and discover.
The wide world around us is itself a classroom!
I know that I forget that.
And I know that I forget what it’s like to lean into the art of wonder and desire to discover that comes so naturally to kids.
But they remind me of it.
This is why I feel healed.
Witnessing the magic of the world through their eyes and hearts is an absolute privilege.
Want to witness the magic, too? Join us for an upcoming nature adventure.