A discussion on where I seek nature and why.
“The idea behind Shizen is that we are all connected to nature, emotionally spiritually and physically; and that the more closely something relates to nature, the more pleasing it is, whether it’s a spoon, or a piece of furniture, or the way a house is decorated.” -Quote from Shinrin-Yoku — The Art and Science of Forest Bathing by Dr. Qing Li
While the definition of nature varies academically, from profession to profession, to me it is more an idea. According to Merriam-Websters, the 6th definition of nature is defined as “the external world in its entirety.” Historically, this definition seemed to fit the best, as it could roughly be translated to anything not directly influenced by humans. A particularly broad definition, and arguably one that fails to encompass the whole truth. For me the idea of nature is a notion of freedom and expression found within the ecological environment. I try to experience it in the following two ways.
As a student of Landscape Architecture, the definitions of Nature are secondary to the experience. The moments of nature invoke emotion and inspiration, essential to a designer, but also to a well-rounded human. Busy everyday life often hinders attempts to commute outside of the city to experience a more ‘traditional’ experience of nature. And while my apartment maintains an extensive array of flora, watered weekly to help with grounding, I end up seeking nature in the isolated moments. Whether appreciating the vines overtaking a flower box, or the greenway corridor of the park, a wayward weed, beautiful in its determination to live. It’s through these unintended surprises that allow me to experience and feel nature. Key amongst this point, is that I consciously seek it out during my everyday live.
Landscape as a word is both an object and an action, and while a highly designed Landscape can sometimes invoke the same feelings of calm as a walk through the woods, it is often the walk that I find myself craving. “Forest Bathing” or Shinrin-Yoku, a Japanese term coined during the 1980’s, is essentially a practice of embracing nature, (or the forest as the name translates) as a health measure. Time Magazine, and National Geographic along with a few other publications have all written about the positive effects and have more information into the studies being done. I was first introduced to the term by an elementary school teacher, with whom I had discussed my love of nature. I did not include this as a conscious practice until I was in undergrad, where I attempted to incorporate it my weekly practices as a form of positive well-being. Now as a grad student, I have embraced it as a form of inspiration, reflection, and meditation.
Seeking nature is essential to both a well-rounded human, and to experience emotions and inspiration. While perhaps I am bias as both a Landscape and Architecture enthusiast, it’s the experience and knowledge that drives the desire to truly understand nature.
Truism! Downsizing has a negative affect that can only be balanced nature. In an effort to achieve balance, I try to walk no matter what the weather.yIn an effort to achieve balance, I try to walk no matter what the weather. Nature let me see multi dimensional beauty. Good article.