Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) is tough. It’s a daily challenge doing simple things you once could easily do. Losing control of your body has an overwhelming impact on mental health. – Depression is a common symptom of MS.
It’s important to eat healthy and live a healthy lifestyle, it also includes your spirit. You don’t have to be religious to improve your spirit. Spiritual health means being at peace, a state of inner calm. You are trying to heal your central nervous system, so staying relaxed is important. Exposure to nature improves both your physical and emotional well-being.
Most cities have a park or some kind of natural setting like a walking path that people can visit. Even small towns have parks or other outdoor spaces that people can visit. Whether big or small, some towns have hiking trails, biking trails, or fishing spots. Others have lakes, rivers, or beaches.
Spending time in nature is healing physically, mentally, and spiritually. Spiritual wellness is finding meaning and connection in life, no matter your beliefs.
The sunset image above was taken from my front porch, the black spot in the sky was a duck quacking as it flew by (it flew right over our porch).
I live in a rural area and rarely go to town where I’m around other people. I get my spiritual healing from Mother Nature. One of my favorite things is sitting in my rocking chair on my front porch listening to nothing but nature. The flowers surrounding my porch smell good and attract hummingbirds and hummingbird moths. Sometimes the hummingbirds will fly right up to me. It is extremely peaceful and relaxing.
Spending time in nature is one of the simplest and most effective ways to enjoy it. Early morning sunlight can help boost immunity, strengthen bones, and support heart health. Osteoporosis and heart disease are risk factors for people with MS.
Dive into the Healing Power of Nature
Whether it’s a stroll in the park or your backyard, spending time in nature allows you to reconnect with yourself and experience the healing power of the natural world. No matter your level of disability, spending time in nature is easy. Even with limited mobility, you can enjoy nature by sitting and observing. If you’re mobile, go for a walk and pay attention to nature. There’s nothing more fulfilling than growing your garden, flowers, or vegetables.
When surrounded by trees, flowers, and open skies, you experience the soothing effects of nature’s healing power. Visiting a green forest or sitting by a babbling brook can calm your mind and lift your spirits, showing you the true healing power of nature.
Spending time in nature has many health benefits including:
- Better concentration
- Improves memory
- Improves mood and self-esteem
- Increased vitamin D
- Faster healing
- Fewer aches and pains
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduces depression
- Reduces stress
- Stronger immune system
Include the healing power of nature in your journey towards better health. From simple outdoor activities to mindful practices, start reconnecting with nature and experiencing its profound healing effects.
Tips on the healing power of nature
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Below are some easy tips to help you feel better by spending time in nature. First, try to spend time outside whenever you can. Being in nature, like a park or garden, can make you feel happier and less stressed. Take a walk or sit outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Another tip is to notice the little things in nature, like birds singing or flowers blooming. Being mindful of these things can help you feel more connected to the world around you. Finally, try doing activities in nature, like gardening or walking. These activities can be fun and relaxing, and they can help you feel more grounded and peaceful. So, next time you’re feeling down, remember to spend some time in nature – it’s like a natural remedy for feeling better!
Gardening for Wellness:
The image above is from my front yard, I’m into xeriscaping to save water. The tall purple flowers are called penstemon, the yellow flowers are called chocolate flowers.
There are many therapeutic benefits of gardening. It increases physical activity, lowers stress, and connects you with nature. Make an inclusive garden with raised beds or containers for different mobility levels. Gardening allows you to connect with the healing power of nature as you nurture plants and cultivate your own oasis of tranquility.
Grow a vegetable garden. Start with veggies that are easy to grow such as lettuce, onions, and radishes. Also, fruit that is easy to grow such as bell peppers, cucumbers, strawberries, and tomatoes. If you don’t have room for a traditional garden grow them in containers. Growing fruits and vegetables is rewarding and it gets you outside.
Outdoor Exercise Options:
There are many outdoor exercise activities you can do, depending on your level of disabilities. Some include walking, cycling, or swimming. If you struggle with walking or are in a wheelchair go to your local park or botanical garden. Listen to your body, especially when trying new activities or increasing intensity.
Sun Safety and Heat Safety:
Just being outside, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, can bring a sense of peace and healing. However, some people with MS have a sensitivity to heat, if you do, be aware of the temperatures. Spend time outdoors earlier in the day when it’s cooler. If needed where a cooling device such as a cooling vest. Be careful not to get overheated. When you are outside stay in the shade. Also, wear lightweight clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off you.
Mindful Nature Walks:
The image above is when my husband and I went on a road trip. We drove down to the river and stayed for quite a while because it was extremely peaceful plus, no cell signal so there were no distractions.
Take leisurely walks in parks or nature reserves for relaxation and mindfulness. Visit your local zoo, park, nature center, or aquarium. Engage in your senses by observing the sights, sounds, and smells of the environment.
If you struggle with walking, buy or rent a mobility scooter. This helps you get out more and enjoy some sunshine and fresh air to lift your spirits. Pay attention to the size of the wheels/tires, you’ll need bigger ones if you’re going to the beach or on a nature trail.
Picnicking with Purpose:
Have a picnic with fresh fruits, veggies, and healthy snacks. Invite friends or family to enjoy the outdoors together. If you go to a public park be aware of the toxic chemicals they spray on the grass. Don’t sit directly on the grass, use a blanket to sit on.
Creative Expression Outdoors:
Try outdoor creative activities like painting, sketching, or journaling. Tap into your artistic side while surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Wilderness Therapy Retreats:
Look into wilderness therapy retreats designed specifically for people with handicaps. There are yoga retreats, mindful retreats, and wellness retreats.
Community Gardens and Green Spaces:
Don’t have space for a garden? Look into community gardens and green spaces in urban areas. City dwellers can connect with nature and grow their own produce.
Birdwatching and Nature Photography:
The image above is a picture I took, I sat perfectly still for a long time waiting for the perfect shot of this hummingbird. (These are my favorite-smelling flowers in my yard – garden phlox.)
Birdwatching is fun and you don’t have to be an expert. Place a bird feeder near your window so you can enjoy the birds feeding year-round. Nature photography is a relaxing hobby and it’s easy to take pictures since most people have a camera on their smartphone. Shoot in your backyard, and take pictures of flowers, insects, and birds.
If you have an issue with your balance buy a tripod. There are many to choose from including ones for your smartphone. Some can even be attached to a wheelchair and they have a remote. Here’s the tripod I own for my smartphone: Ubeesize Phone Tripod, Portable and Flexible Tripod with Wireless Remote and Clip.
Feeling Adventurous:
Having MS doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying life even if you’re in a wheelchair. Horseback riding, boating, hiking, camping, and fishing are activities you can still enjoy. Check your area for wheelchair-accessible activities. If needed, discuss the potential benefits of outdoor experiences led by experienced guides.
Environmental Conservation Activities:
Participating in environmental conservation is satisfying and brings a sense of purpose. Volunteering for park clean-up efforts or supporting local conservation organizations.
Meditating for Spiritual Wellness
Meditation is another method of caring for your spiritual wellness. Meditating can be as simple as relaxing. Nature is a perfect place to do this. Find a quiet spot to relax and tell each part of your body to relax and let go of the tension. This is extremely healing for your nervous system.
Meditate outdoors (weather permitting), whether it’s in your backyard, patio, or at a park, or beach. The sounds of nature can improve your focus and deepen your meditation experience. Being in nature is extremely relaxing and healing.
Embrace the Healing Power of Nature
Image by prostooleh on Freepik
As you’re working on your journey to feeling better, remember how nature can help. Being outdoors, feeling the breeze, or stargazing can refresh and calm you. Watching the clouds drift by or listening to birds chirping can remind you of the simple joys in life and the healing power of nature’s beauty.
From the gentle rustle of leaves to the rhythmic crashing of waves, nature’s sounds have a therapeutic effect, soothing our souls and promoting inner healing. Nature provides you with a sanctuary where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to recharge and find healing in its tranquility.
Nature has a special way of making you feel good. Go outside, take a deep breath, and let nature help you heal. Go outside, get some fresh air, and soak up the incredible healing power of nature all around you.
Image by freepic.diller on Freepik
Harnessing the Healing Power of Nature
Do you personally know of anyone ever recovering from foot drop? My left side is pretty useless and often wonder if I’m just fooling myself. Thank you
I’ve talked to people who recovered from all their MS symptoms including someone who had PPMS. However, they didn’t say “foot drop” but I’m sure they did. Foot drop or drop foot is due to muscle weakness, spasticity, and nerve damage. Do calf raises (either sitting or standing) by using a step or standing on a board, lift up on tiptoes for strength then down to the floor to stretch the calf muscles. Use a resistance band or a belt to lift the front of your foot/toes then slowly lower it. Concentrate while doing these exercises, you need to train your brain to go around the MS damage. Check YouTube for MS foot drop or drop foot exercises.