Sometimes all the nurturing in the world won’t calm an irrational, worked up or distraught child. That’s when I encourage parents to get a little help from Mother Nature. You see, all things nature help bring people to their heart space. Ever find that you feel immeasurably better after a walk on the beach or through a park? It’s because nature seeks balance and moves in to restore frantic or low energy creating equilibrium and harmony.
Of course, a child who is cranky because they’ve missed a nap simply needs sleep. Or if they are falling to pieces because it’s past lunchtime, no amount of nature will quell the effects of low blood sugar. But if your child is just having an off day, a little bit of time outside could work wonders.
Sending Johnny and Sally out to play together if they have been fighting might not work, but if you take them on a walk, or on a picnic and participate together, I believe you will find a change of attitude in the kids. Chaos can exist outside, so again, going to a crowded park where there aren’t enough swings or the slide is stuffed with kids is not likely to help you or your child. The chaotic energy of the people there will surely overrule the calming force of the grass, trees, sun and sky, but if you can play in a quieter park, walk through a botanical gardens, walk on the beach and collect shells, work in the garden at home or sit in your personal meditation garden the effects can be magical.
Too cold or yucky to go outside? If you have a green thumb you can make sure there is a corner of your home with child safe plants all around. Plop your child there with some relaxing music, coloring books and/or a story book and allow them to unwind and fill up. Or, draw a warm bath and let your child soak while you read him a story. Add a tablespoon of Epsom salts and a couple of drops of lavender and your child just may transform from angry and defiant to complacent and happy!
Please share with us your favorite ways to employ nature in your quest to nurture your child!
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