In this age of increased digitisation and restricted movement, the rewilding lifestyle trend is becoming quite popular across all spheres of life.
In fact, you might even be part of the rewilding movement without being aware it even was a movement!
Rewilding is basically a wellness trend where you reconnect with nature, and enjoy a more natural way of life, to reap the benefits of an outdoor lifestyle.
We’re currently experiencing digital fatigue, drained by artificial lighting and what’s known as the ‘sitting culture’.
Through rewilding, we’re using nature’s therapy to lower stress levels, decrease anxiety and increase energy levels.
In fact, more and more medical professionals are encouraging time outdoors in nature, as a way to enhance mental and physical health.
In Japan, the recommended forest-bathe is a time-honoured tradition of simply getting out for a walk in nature to revitalise body, soul and mind.
Even in holiday times, people are looking for nature-based travel options rather than synthetic theme parks and cities.
Rural adventures such as rock climbing, hikes in nature reserves, soaking in hot springs, or just hitting the beach for some Vitamin Sea.
If you’re keen to enjoy the benefits of rewilding, here are 5 ways to get going:
1. Stop the sitting
Constantly remaining in one place, particularly when staring at a computer or television screen, can be detrimental to your health.
If you work in an office space, then set a reminder for every 20 minutes so you can get up and walk around – preferably outdoors if possible. Humans once sat on the ground which encouraged regular movement.
With our comfortable office chairs, we’re moving a lot less.
2. Barefoot time
Walking barefoot, which is also known as ‘earthing’, actually has a number of scientifically-backed health advantages including increasing antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep.
Whenever you can, kick off those shoes and walk around on natural surfaces such as grass, soil or beach sand.
Walking in itself is beneficial, but if you’re able to do it barefoot, you benefit by synchronising with earth’s natural electric charge – even if it’s just walking around in the garden.
3. Houseplants and nature
We’re very fortunate in Zululand that there are so many opportunities to get out and enjoy nature, whether it’s game reserves, nature reserves, beaches or forests.
Just the simple act of walking in a natural environment has huge health benefits, but if you are unable to do so, then consider getting some houseplants.
These are effective at cleaning the air as well as encouraging productivity and concentration.
4. Skincare products
Rewilding also extends to your beauty and skincare regime with many companies shifting to more natural ingredients that actually ‘rewild the skin’ and get it closer to nature.
For years, the trend has been to buy more and more products at a higher cost, simply because companies want to make more money.
The reality is, less is more in terms of skincare, and it’s important to make sure the ingredients won’t harm your skin or the environment. Natural, ethically-sourced ingredients which heal rather than harm.
5. Organic eating
An important aspect of rewilding is also what you put into your body, which means more mindful eating.
This doesn’t have to be a complete overhaul of your life, you can start simply by increasing your water intake and snacking on healthier options rather than chips and sweets.
From there, you can move onto increasing your fruit and vegetable intake, lowering meat consumption and ensuring food isn’t manufactured with harmful chemicals.
With the start of spring, it’s time for renewal and regeneration, and rewilding might be just the positive change you need in your life right now!
Sources: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-9099/the-surprising-health-benefits-of-going-barefoot.html https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/re-wilding-wellness-trend
