Doctor Nature: It's Curative Qualities

The world has never changed as rapidly as it is transforming today. With technological inventions gradually taking over every part of our lives, we have become more advanced in every field. But newer is not necessarily better. With prescription drugs proliferating at an unheard of rate and the upsurge of obesity, heart disease, depression, and Alzheimer’s, scientists are beginning to take a second look at some old-fashioned remedies and medical advice. Their conclusions? It’s time to look beyond conventional medicine and into the great outdoors.

Did your mother always tell you to eat your fruits and veggies, because “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”? Or that carrots are good for your eyesight? Well, experts are beginning to prove her claims correct. As Vitamin Nature’s popularity soars, people are rediscovering nature’s remarkable qualities.

It may be a new development that doctors are beginning to prescribe spending time outdoors for a wide variety of ailments, ranging from diabetes to childhood ADHD, but the benefits of spending time with nature are obvious to all of us. Who hasn’t felt an uplifting of spirits and a peaceful sense of calm just by walking out into the fresh air? In some fascinating studies, it has been proven that even looking at pictures of nature can help relieve stress. (Check out this page for more specific details.)

Have you recently taken a walk outside? Did you think about the terrific boost you were giving your body, aside from the health benefits of exercising? Just breathing in fresh air is good for digestion, cleans your lungs, and enhances your immune system. And don’t forget sunlight. Along with vitamin D, its rays can improve your mood, treat certain skin conditions, and ease arthritis.

Take a stroll over to your local vegetable field or fruit orchard (or the neighborhood supermarket, if there’s no farms nearby!). Fruits and veggiesare another amazing source of health. Of course, there’s the fiber content, and they’re stock full of minerals and nutrients that are terrific for your body and reduce the risk for certain diseases. But don’t think it stops there. There are some amazing side benefits to these plants, as well. Prunes and bananas for digestive health, avocados and onions for mental health, carrots and papayas for liver health; the list goes on. (See more examples at here.)

Don’t forget about herbs, with all their curative qualities. Used by healers for centuries and viewed as old-wives’ tales until they were proven scientifically, there are numerous herbs that can ease nearly every health issue. Just look through your basic cooking spices; you’ll be surprised how potent some of them can be. Ginger for nausea, garlic for blood pressure, dill for indigestion, and much more. (For an extensive list, visit this link.)

Heading home from your walk? You can bring nature indoors with you, along with all its benefits. It will shock nobody that flowers can boost your mood and evoke a sense of calm. Especially for seniors, flowers can improve happiness and overall life satisfaction. Interestingly, there was a study that demonstrated the power of flowers in the workplace, increasing productivity and innovative problem-solving.

Houseplants are also a great addition to your home or work environment. Plants will increase oxygen levels and release water into the air, minimizing dry skin and sore throats (sort of like a natural cool-mist humidifier!). And for the in-house scholar or college student, houseplant can improve concentration and memory. Definitely a worthwhile and inexpensive investment!

Nature can be an incredibly powerful healer. We just have to learn how to take advantage of what it has to offer. With the numerous diseases and health issues plaguing society, it’s time to step out into the sunshine and bask in nature’s trove of treasures. As I embark on my journey to rediscover the wonders our world has to offer, I’d love to hear your side of the story. What are you suffering from? How has nature played a part in helping you feel better? Together, I think we can really make a difference in our lives, and the lives of the people around us.

Looking forward to sharing with you!