5 Easy Ways To Connect With Nature At Home

There are 5 easy ways to connect with nature while at home that are guided by biophilic design principles.

Dear Spirited Earthling,

Living in a city has countless benefits, but one of the biggest downsides is our dramatically reduced exposure to nature. Bringing natural aspects into your home is an easy way to connect with nature while living in a city. This can be done by following the biophilic design philosophy.

Biophilic design offers numerous benefits that can improve people's physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. By incorporating natural elements into living and working spaces, we can create environments that are aesthetically pleasing and promote relaxation, creativity, and productivity.

What is biophilic design?

Biophilic design is an innovative approach to architecture and interior design that incorporates elements of nature into living and working spaces.

The term "biophilia" stems from the idea that humans have an innate and instinctive connection with nature and other living organisms. Biophilic design seeks to strengthen this connection by integrating natural elements and patterns into the design of spaces where people live, work, and play.

Biophilic design is aesthetically pleasing and has numerous psychological and physiological benefits for occupants. As such, it has gained popularity in various settings, including homes, offices, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, as a way to create healthier and more harmonious living and working environments.

“The goal is to find balance between indoor and outdoor living so that can live a little closer to nature without losing the benefits of indoor living.” ~ Martin Summer

Imagine this scenario:

You’re looking for an apartment to rent. The first one you visit is a good size but it’s dark and has few windows. The second one you visit is a tad smaller but has a lot of natural light and is airy. Which one would you choose?

Most people will choose a place with good natural light and ventilation. These features are part of biophilic design. While many of us are moving into spaces that are already built and we have no say on window placement nor building materials, there are other elements you can use that connects you with nature (keep reading!).

What are the benefits of connecting with nature in an urban environment?

It is well-established that time in nature is healing. Interacting with nature, even in a limited indoor capacity, can have positive effects on your mental and physical well-being. It can reduce stress, increase happiness, and boost overall mood. Incorporating natural elements such as plants, water features, and natural light into living and working spaces can help create a calming and soothing ambience that promotes relaxation.

Natural elements like plants, natural materials, and colours inspired by nature can enhance the visual appeal of your home, creating a calming and inviting atmosphere. Studies have shown that people who work in environments that incorporate natural elements are more productive and creative than those who work in traditional office spaces.

Houseplants can improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. They also add humidity to the air, which can be especially beneficial in dry indoor environments. Indoor gardening or caring for plants can be a therapeutic and rewarding hobby. It gives you a sense of accomplishment as you watch your plants grow and thrive.

Exposure to natural light and fresh air can improve overall health and well-being, reduce the risk of illness, and enhance the immune system. Seasonal decorations or changing the plants you have in your home can help you stay connected with the natural world and the changing seasons. Connecting with nature at home is easy when adopting a biophilic design.

In the first episode of Jane Goodall’s podcast Hopecast, she gives an example of an American city where crime is higher, and health is worse in areas with less greenery than areas with more green spaces. Areas in a city with more trees and flowers are typically more inviting and attractive. Besides the aesthetic appeal of trees, temperatures are lower and air quality is better in streets lined with trees and cities with more greenery.

Green areas and natural spaces are where most of us go to simply breathe. Think about what you do. Where do you go to clear your head? Perhaps out in the fresh air. Where do you go to reduce stress? Maybe for a walk or run along the river. Where do you go to lift your spirits? It could be in the botanical garden or watching the waves crash onto the shore.

So, when it comes to your home, keep these ideas in mind!

5 Easy Ways to Connect with Nature while Living in an Apartment

There are 5 easy ways to connect with nature while at home that are guided by biophilic design principles.

1. Natural Light

Fine and enhance the natural light in your home.

• Keep your windows clean.

• Keep your windows clear from too much clutter to allow as much light in as possible.

• Spend most of your time in the rooms with the most natural light.

• Use mirrors to reflect light in the house.

• Paint darker rooms lighter colours.

Find and create natural light in your home.

2. Fresh Air

Breathe fresh air every day.

• Open your windows and air out your space.

• Bring the smells of nature into your home with essential oils in a diffuser (and benefit from some aromatherapy).

Open the window and enjoy the fresh air.

3. Plants (Indoor and Outdoor)

Indoor plants are important for home decoration so happily surround yourself with plants. Place sun loving plants on the window sill and shade loving plants in darker areas.

• Have plants of different heights and colours to keep the view interesting.

• Plant herbs and flowers in your garden, in planter boxes on your balcony or windowsill.

• Gardens give you even more freedom to create a natural oasis.

Indoor plants bring life to a space.

4. Natural Materials

Incorporate natural materials into your furniture and décor:

• wood and bamboo

• stone

• cotton

• rattan and wicker

There are many sustainable material sources today. Also, buy second-hand when you can.

Feel and see natural materials in your home.

5. Images of Nature

There are so many different ways to bring images of nature into your home:

• On wallpaper.

• In artwork and photographs.

• On your bed linen and blankets.

• On your carpets, tablecloths, towels, etc.

Have fun with prints.

Bonus Ways to Connect with Nature when Living in an Urban Environment

• Take date day / date night outside: Have a picnic surrounded by trees. Eat dinner outside. Play board games on your balcony.

• Find hobbies and sports that take you outside: get into gardening, try your hand at photography, visit your local farmers market and street fairs, hike more or get on a bicycle, swim or surf or sail.

• Meet family and friends in natural spaces: Have your catch-up coffee on a park bench. Enjoy Sunday lunch outside.

• Get on your feet and walk and cycle when you can. Walk to the corner store.

Spirited Earthling is more than just a blog – it's a gathering place for kindred spirits drawn by an interest in self-discovery, the appeal of self-care, and a desire for a deeper connection to the world. Written and created for curious minds and spiritual hearts seeking meaning in everyday life, this blog aims to help you curate your wholesome personal growth with free weekly ideas and affordable resources for sale.

As you navigate your personal growth journey using the words and ideas shared here, consider sharing this blog with someone looking for inspiration or motivation on their own journey. We are all spirited earthlings, and can lift each other together with mindful, connected living.

Thank you for being part of this community.

Best wishes, warmest regards

Jordan

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Affirmation: I am connected to nature and am grateful for her.

Exercise: Open the window and let in fresh air. Sit in the sun. Buy a houseplant.

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