Albert Einstein once said ‘look deep into nature, and you will understand everything better.' I'm no physicist but I wholeheartedly agree. In a world that's constantly changing, innovating and growing, there's a certain solace in knowing that a tree remains a tree – and life doesn't only exist on a screen.
The term for the Japanese art of forest-bathing 'shinrin-yoku' may have emerged back in the 1980s, but it only confirmed what we all already know: that time spent reconnecting with nature is good for both our mental and physical wellbeing. So, let me share how enjoying the physiological benefits of eco-therapy makes my every day better. Grab your hiking boots...
It helps me appreciate our earthly resources
We've become more aware than ever of the planetary impact of disposable plastics, general waste and resource-heavy production, So, it's no surprise I made some small changes that have had a big difference in how I live my life. Having a personal 'buy less, but better' shopping mantra and a general 'people over profits' ethos means that I care about the materials I wear, the food I eat and the people involved in the production. This is why I try to only eat organic food and wear organic cotton, knowing that any workers or land involved in their creation were not exposed to chemical fertilisers or potentially harmful pesticides. Sure, it can cost a little more and be a bit harder to find, but this way, I know every pound I spend is a vote towards practises I want to see more of in the world
It makes my dog-walking schedule a genuine joy
Forest bathing may sound like an intense concept but the practice really is as simple as walking out in nature (a park, woods or coastland) and consciously connecting with what’s around you. That's it. No selfies, no scrolling and certainly no technology in sight. I take my dog Nola out frequently throughout my day – and I always come back with a clearer head and happier heart. It doesn't feel like a chore when I really engage with her and our surroundings, even if that's in the pit of winter (thank you thermals!)
It's diversified my wardrobe
It wasn't until I became a dog-owner myself – which I'd attest to being the ultimate outdoor adventurer as you need to go outside, no matter the weather – that I truly appreciated the design genius of thermal technology.
The Adidas by Stella McCartney collection is ideal for multi-functional performance wear. It's designed for outdoor adventures and various terrains – and since it's mostly made out of sustainable or recycled fabrics including organic cotton, it offers quality with minimum environmental impact. Please excuse me while I'll be cocooning myself in their puffer coat (which legit feels like you're snug in a sleeping bag) for the rest of the season. Plus, the Winter COLD.RDY boots will equip anyone for the chilliest of hikes, thanks to special insulation technology which will keep our toes toasty warm (and more importantly, dry.) Look out for their reflective wear too while the nights are drawing in for the season.
It gives me time to enjoy the quiet
I live near my family, am constantly listening to podcasts or voice notes and am usually reeling in the evening after a day of video calls, so taking time outside, with my phone firmly in my pocket and on flight mode, provides me with pure relaxation and quiet. As a Catholic, it also allows me time to pray, meditate on the Bible and give God the space to talk to me while I listen. Saint Bruno once said 'what benefits and divine exultation the solitude and silence of the desert holds in store for those who love it!' and I really feel like I get that now – there's no better feeling than coming back refreshed from time out in nature.
It encourages me to explore
It's easy to get stuck in a rut when you're going to the same outside space every day, which is why I have a varied rota with some of my favourite places to go during the week – and during the weekends? It's wide open! From airy green spaces to serene lakes, getting outside makes me want to continually discover and uncover more ground. I'm blessed to have my own car which gives me even more freedom to go further afield in search of my next hiking spot, wild water swim or vantage point. It's no surprise I've dedicated a whole drawer and shelf to my outdoorsy wardrobe.
Embrace exploring the nature around you in Stella McCartney's collection for Adidas now
