Have you heard of Biophilia? The term combines “Bio,” meaning life, and “Philia,” meaning a friendly feeling toward. Biophilia enthusiasts suggest that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature. Edward O. Wilson defines biophilia as “the urge to affiliate with other forms of life.” Research suggests that biophilia can have a positive impact on wellbeing and should be included in daily self-care practices. Spending time in nature can positively impact both physical and mental health. Time spent in green spaces, for instance, is associated with lower levels of stress, improved memory, and heightened creativity.
Incorporating biophilia into your self-care routine
Here are some ways defence & veteran families, including defence spouses and war widows, can incorporate biophilia into their self-care routines:
- Spending Time Outdoors: Make it a habit to spend time in natural settings regularly. This could involve going for walks in parks, hiking trails, or simply sitting in a garden or green space. This practice can be particularly beneficial for defence families who may face unique challenges.
- Bringing Nature Indoors: Incorporate elements of nature into your living and working spaces. This could include adding indoor plants, natural materials like wood or stone, or even nature-inspired artwork. Creating a nature-infused environment can provide a calming effect for defence spouses and war widows managing multiple responsibilities.
- Nature-Based Activities: Engage in activities that allow you to interact with nature directly, such as gardening, birdwatching, or stargazing. These activities can be both relaxing and rejuvenating, offering a therapeutic escape for veteran families.
- Mindful Nature Observation: Practice mindfulness while in nature by paying close attention to your surroundings using your senses. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the natural environment around you. Try this at the beach while watching each wave roll in. This mindful practice can help defence families stay grounded and present.
- Nature Sounds and Scents: Bring the calming effects of nature indoors by playing recordings of nature sounds or using essential oils with natural scents like lavender or eucalyptus during relaxation exercises. This can help create a serene atmosphere for defence families.
- Digital Detox in Nature: Take breaks from screens and technology by unplugging and spending time in nature. Use this time to recharge and reset away from the distractions of modern life. This practice can be especially beneficial for defence spouses and war widows seeking a break from daily stressors.
Benefits of biophilia for defence families
By incorporating these biophilic practices into your self-care routine, defence families can experience the restorative power of nature to nurture their physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Embracing biophilia can lead to lower stress levels, improved memory, heightened creativity, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
Join a community of like-minded individuals
We would love for you to share your experience of biophilia to inspire others to think about it too. Join our community on our Wellbeing Support for Defence and Veteran Families | Facebook to connect with like-minded individuals, including other defence families, who are also exploring the benefits of biophilia.
Incorporating biophilia into your self-care routine can transform your approach to wellbeing. Defence families, including defence spouses and veterans’ families, can benefit greatly from connecting with nature. Remember, every moment spent in nature is a step towards greater wellbeing.
Share your experiences of biophilia and inspire others by joining our community on our group Wellbeing Support for Defence and Veteran Families | Facebook. Connect with other defence families and continue your journey towards mindful living and enhanced wellbeing.
