Let’s talk about one of my FAVORITE things: Nature!
There’s this amazing thing called “Attention Restoration Theory” (ART) was proposed by two researchers, Rachel and Stephen Kaplan.
The Kaplans discuss four ways we can restore ourselves by being out in Nature. They happen one at a time, over three hours…or better yet, over three days.
1) Clearer head, or concentration
2) Mental fatigue recovery
3) Soft fascination, or interest
4) Reflection and restoration
People experience these during a 3-hour “forest therapy/forest bathing” experience.
You relax, get present, dial down the “thinking” mind, and open up to new possibilities (even if just that stillness is possible). Regularly practicing clearing your head, relaxing your brain, relaxing your gaze, and taking time to settle into relaxation has HUGE benefits, including increasing your executive function (ability to make good decisions), boosting your creativity, and relaxing your cardiovascular system.
Combing nature with coaching is a powerful combination. Want to try it sometime? If you’re in the Charlotte area, reach out, and let’s talk about scheduling some powerful restoration time together.
Warmly,
Angie
PS: One of my clients called me a “mental coach” today. He said, “I’ve got a weight lifting coach, a running coach, and now I’ve got you: my mental coach.” He said this while we were sitting in the woods doing some nature-based coaching. I’ll accept the title! ?