lean into (phrasal verb)
commit fully to or embrace something
nature (noun)
– the world and its naturally occurring phenomena, together with all of the physical laws that govern them
– the inherent character or basic constitution of a person or thing
– humankind’s original or natural condition
– a kind or class usually distinguished by fundamental or essential characteristics
About
Lean into Nature is a blog focused on community, connection and wellbeing, rooted in the natural world. I explore how strengthening our relationship with nature improves our physical and mental wellbeing and our social connection. I’m also exploring how I incorporate more natural ways of living, including slowing down, seasonal rhythms and embracing anti-productivity, to combat the busyness and noise of modern life.
So if you’re interested in everything from forest therapy, nature study, nature-inspired arts and crafts, and mindful walks to seasonal rhythms, ancient traditions and rituals, herbal remedies, slowing down, being anti productive, then you’ve come to the right place!
And who am I?
Hi, I’m Nilam! I’ve spent a significant portion of my 40 years or so on this planet, reading self-help books, philosophy, literature, psychology books, and anything else that might help me make sense of why I felt so lost, disconnected and restless. I’ve had periods of anxiety and depression. But in the past few years, I’ve been on a journey of self-discovery to explore why I feel this way, and what, apart from medication and therapy, I could do to help myself. Unpinning this has been a growing awareness that so much of how we live today is resulting in probably lots of other people feeling the same as me. Our lives are busy, we don’t know our neighbours, we don’t see our friends and family often. A return the old ways isn’t the answer for me, but there has to be a better way to live and be.
I am not an expert in the natural world nor am I an expert in mental health issues, but I’ve found great comfort in being outside, finding ways to be present, spending time with family, and reading philosophical and spiritual texts (although I wouldn’t say I’m a religious person).
I am accredited by the Complementary Medical Association in the UK as a Forest Therapy Practitioner and have certified up-to-date training in basic life support first aid. I occasionally run local forest therapy events in Essex and Suffolk.
