Aspire Magazine: Inspiration for a Woman's Soul.(TM) Oct/Nov 2016 Aspire Mag Full Issue | Page 61

Nature walks – a wonderful source of peace and calm If Mother Nature were a doctor she would prescribe nature walks as a necessity to happiness. Walking or exercising in nature or your closest accessible green surroundings promotes not only your physical health but your mental health too. In fact, it’s scientifically proven! In a study conducted that tested two groups’ cortisol levels, one group partaking in a city walk, one doing a nature walk. The findings (1) demonstrated that the experience of walking through the forest reduced the participants’ levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, to a greater extent than did the city walk. Proof that nature makes you happy. Taking in the beautiful surroundings, green grass and natural wonderment of the earth is uplifting for the heart, body and soul. It is especially helpful if you have had a stressful day or are feeling a little lost spiritually, the overwhelming sense of happiness, peace Exercising is for happy people and happy people exercise! Exercise releases endorphins and of course endorphins make you happy! What are endorphins? They are peptides that activate the body’s opiate receptors, causing an analgesic “The way to happiness is; keep your heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Love simply, give much. Fill your life with love. Do as you would be done by.” – BUDDHA and tranquility you can experience from nature walks is incredible. If you feel your crown or third eye chakras may be blocked, a nature walk is the perfect remedy for unblocking them and letting happiness flow through your energy body. effect therefore giving you the feeling of happiness. Exercise doesn’t just make you happy on a scientific level but also on a spiritual one. Getting out into new environments to exercise can work wonders for your peace of mind and can 61 HEALTH & WELLNESS Your route to joy and happiness lies within your own mind and own surroundings. No matter where you are in life you can achieve joy and happiness. Below are a few easy suggestions to help you on your way. Let’s begin immediately by saying to yourself, “I choose to be happy today.” Happiness can be a choice.