Article by: Vicky Alercia-Casella LPC
Sky Above
Earth Below
Peace Within
These are the words that are printed on a statue of balanced rocks, sitting on my desk at home. With living in a society that appears to operate at a constant state of busyness and productivity, what a beautiful thought it is to consider the concept of slowing down and being present in nature. Last year, I obtained my certification in Ecotherapy because I believe that nature can heal us, if we take the time to embrace it. There are many studies that show nature can reduce our stress, anxiety, depression, adhd symptoms, loneliness as well as increase our mood, mental health, focus, self-esteem, and our immune system. In modern society, our nervous system (fight, flight, freeze) is often activated. Going back to our roots and connecting with the natural world around us can change who we are in so many ways. But how often do we use the excuse that we don’t have time?
I gently encourage you to begin today. Turn off the tv and step outside to tune into nature. Use all your senses to ground yourself. Find a comfortable spot to sit- consider taking off your shoes and socks and wiggle your toes in between the grass. Imagine the natural energy from the ground rising and coursing through your body. Look up at the sky- all the shades of blues, what do you see in the fluffy clouds? Listen to the birds- are they singing? Close your eyes and feel the sun and the breeze on your skin. Relax your shoulders or wherever you hold tension. Take a few deep breaths. Identify all the aspects of your life that you can be grateful for.
Go for a Thank You Walk. Every day, I go for a 10 minute walk and while I do, I not only notice nature around me but I list all the things I am grateful for, starting with the blessing of waking up today and all the things that we often take for granted, like being able to see, walk, have food to eat, and clothes to wear.
Nature has so many lessons to teach us. One of my favorite lessons from nature is the concept of a tree. I ponder when a tree loses its leaves during the autumn, guiding us to know it is okay to let go of aspects of our lives that no longer serve us. Change can be freeing and beautiful. And now, this time of year, when spring is upon us, we are invited to bloom. We can bloom by being intentional to step forward with new clarity, open mindedness and with an open heart, with wonder, with mindfulness, with a desire to learn, grow, and heal.
If you feel inspired to learn more about Ecotherapy groups, I am currently offering several groups throughout the Lehigh Valley with the primary location being at Jacobsburg Park. Our next group is tentatively scheduled for a Saturday morning in May. Contact me via email at alerciav@yahoo.com.
Sending you Light & Love,
Vicky Alercia-Casella LPC
Vicky Alercia-Casella has built a remarkable career dedicated to the mental health and well-being of her clients. Her passion for helping others is evident in her diverse range of therapeutic services, which have continually evolved to meet the needs of her community. To learn more about Vicky Alercia-Casella and her counseling services visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/
