Biophilia and connection to nature.
Science has studied the influence that the connection to nature has on us for a long time. Eric Fromm first used the term biophilia (being attracted to all that is alive and vital). It is our innate need to connect with what is alive (animals and plants). Later, Edward O. Wilson popularised the term in his book “Biophilia” (1984).
We now know we humans are not only attracted to nature, but that we need it to feel happy and be healthy. Nature can de-stress us and heal our nervous system. Its contact can make us understand (even feel) that we are part of a bigger whole, thus enhancing our will to protect our environment and our planet.
Our reality today.
We’ve been losing our connection to nature. We spend more and more time indoors and in urbanised areas, and our relation to our natural surroundings (fauna and flora) is weaker.
What are the consequences?
By losing this connection, two problems arise. The first, we don’t feel part of nature, so we don’t feel the need to protect it. We don’t take care of our environment, so the climate crisis can get bigger and bigger.
The second problem is that we feel more isolated. We are not part of something bigger anymore, it’s us versus nature.
We also feel more stressed, as nature, and its sounds, and colours, and smells help us de-stress. As well as natural rhythms, the seasons, the day and night cycle etc support our well-being.
What can we do about it?
An easy answer is “go out”, look for nature – either on a day-trip outside, or with daily walks in a park nearby, or by just looking at the sky everyday.
Another answer is to bring nature at home, have some plants, or take care of an animal. In both cases, only do it if you can offer the best care (to a plant or an animal).
My third suggestion is to introduce art in your space – introduce colours and textures and shapes that remind you of nature and that can bring you some level of peace and mindfulness.
Mandalas can be amazing, with their organic shapes and curves and their fractal-like geometry.
In conclusion,
We need to go back to an understanding that we are not a “stand alone”. We are part of the whole. Never alone but always unique. We have to take care of our environment and of people around us because they are part of who we are.
And we need to be reminded and to feel this truth daily, how? Introduce nature in your daily life.
*Check this small prints I have on my ko-fi page, so you can take your mandalas with you at all time! 🙂 Or take a look at the A4 prints to bring some peace in your space…