Counsel #4 — Nature

Picture: Counsel #4 — NatureCWe 43.1

Stressed? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Spend time outside, in God’s beautiful Creation. Spending time in nature can be a great way to relax and de-stress. Surrounded by the beauty of God-made things, we are better able to focus on God’s goodness, power, and love for us. Additionally, being outside in fresh air can help to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Nature exposure triggers the release of endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects.CWe 43.2

If you are looking for ways to de-stress and build resilience, consider hiking, gardening, birdwatching, or other outdoor activities that provide opportunity for reflection and relief of stress.^{[48]https://adventistreview.org/commentary/how-eco-happiness-boosts-well-being/}CWe 43.3

“He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul.” Psalms 23:2, 3a NKJVCWe 43.4

“God has surrounded us with nature's beautiful scenery to attract and interest the mind. It is His design that we should associate the glories of nature with His character. If we faithfully study the book of nature, we shall find it a fruitful source for contemplating the infinite love and power of God.... It is God who brings the bud to bloom, the flower to fruit. It is He who supplies the daily needs of all His creatures.” Ellen White in My Life Today, p. 294.CWe 43.5

Reflect: What activities in nature bring you the most benefit?CWe 43.6