Look on the bright side

Rainbow over Loch Tay

Just recently I've been aware that a number of friends and colleagues have needed to take time to cope with the pressures they are facing. Interestingly many people are surprised by this, as they are seen to have idyllic lives, living in a beautiful place, working in a fantastic setting etc. But herein lies the problem - perception. What people see on the surface may not be what is actually happening underneath, metaphors about such things as ducks paddling furiously and icebergs being bigger under the surface abound for this reason.

We all face issues in our lives - illnesses, pain, family and friends, work and finance and yes mindfulness can help with all of these, as can being in nature. The key is that this will only happen if it is an active process. Being in nature is great, if you are aware of its benefits constantly. Like friends and colleagues when the issues in life counter the resources we use to balance them, then we will either be overcome or by being active we can add more resources. Mindfulness in and of nature is an essential part of helping us be active, be 'in the moment', appreciating what else is in our lives; counterbalancing issues even momentarily. Just as the unexpected view of a rainbow makes you pause and appreciate the sun and the rain that creates it, so mindfulness in and of nature encourages you to look, to see, to appreciate the beauty around us and keep a perspective, a balance.