Over the past quarantine, I've come to appreciate nature more than ever. Because I wasn't able to frequently hangout with my friends or explore the city, I often found myself taking long bike rides to the park and laying down in the grass. Now, as a city girl, this isn't something I did very often previously. During this stressful time of taking online classes, I realized that being in nature or even having a view of nature had the ability to calm down my stress or any other overwhelming emotion.

Through the sounds of the birds chirping and rustling leaves in the wind, nature has also been scientifically proven to be relaxing to many, strengthening our sense of well being and decreasing our stress. The serenity gives us a chance to unplug from the digital world and reconnect with ourselves in the present moment. It helps center our minds by soothing us and awakening our creative mind.

While being immersed in nature, it is also beneficial to meditate in order to improve our mental health. This activity has tremendously helped me express more gratitude during the pandemic where many have lost jobs and have been struggling with financial stability. The tranquility of nature only makes this practice much easier. I felt more alert and relaxed by creating a deep sense of peace.

So, what exactly is nature telling us? Nature tells us to help, see, and hear the noises around us and become more present in the current moments. It tells us to live in peace and become one with ourselves. It teaches us how to unwind and can give us a sense of creativity and serenity.

Here are a few pictures I took while on a bike ride/stroll!

Near Coney Island Beach

Near New York Bay