Natural Life: The Need to Return to Natural Life
When we say natural life, we may think of an acquaintance who constantly repeats that he wants to get away from the city and move to the Aegean coast. Of course, we can understand why a person who feels exhausted from his daily life dreams of a simpler and more natural life.
However, it should not be forgotten that throughout the long history of humanity, our ancestors lived a life intertwined with nature. Before 1600, it is estimated that the share of the world's population living in cities did not reach 5%. In 1800, this share reached 7%; and in the 1900s, it rose to 16%. In other words, not a very long time ago, just 100 years ago, only 16% of the world's population lived in cities!
Today, this rate has exceeded 50%... When people started living in cities, they entered a process of complete separation from nature. When the separation from nature started to cause individual and social problems and when numerous negative consequences were noticed, a return to natural life, ecological movements and eco-villages emerged. In this article, we discussed the definition of natural life, the longing to return to nature, and how we can include more nature in our daily lives. Enjoy reading!
The concept of meeting human needs in nature, not in the city, gave birth to the term “natural life”. We can say that natural life is living by avoiding all artificial and environmentally harmful elements. The protection of animals, ecosystems, water, forests and soil are indispensable parts of natural life.
Principles of Natural Life
The basic principle behind natural life is to meet your needs as they are found in nature. Living away from all man-made products, plastics, chemicals, goods produced in factories and processed foods in city life is “transforming to natural life”. Another important principle of natural life is to establish a spiritual connection with nature and to take care of the planet.
Steps to take to adopt a sustainable life and a lifestyle that respects nature;
1. Consume Natural Foods
Consume the blessings that nature offers. If you have the opportunity, prefer organic foods. Remember, ‘natural’ does not mean organic. Organic foods are foods grown without the use of artificial pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides. For example, organic meat is obtained from animals that have not received hormones or antibiotics. Natural foods are foods that do not contain synthetic or artificial ingredients and additives. Of course, organic products are more expensive. However, it is possible to eat more naturally by not preferring packaged foods!
2. Support Farmers and Local Producers in Your Area
Instead of 1 kg of products sold in markets, buy first-hand, that is, from farmers and local producers. By supporting local producers, you can both reach healthier food and reduce your carbon footprint!
3. Consume Carefully
We are what we eat and how we consume it! Our nervous system has two basic settings: Sympathetic and parasympathetic. Our sympathetic system is the system that facilitates blood flow and energy, and the fight for survival. When in a sympathetic state, goals such as digestion, repair or reproduction are put on the back burner. When in a parasympathetic state, your body heals itself, absorbs nutrients, repairs tissues, there is no need to fight or flee. You need to be in a relaxed and happy state to meet your nutritional needs.
For this reason;
1. Eat while sitting and in a comfortable environment.
2. Eliminate distractions (work, phone, TV)
3. Take deep breaths before eating.
4. Appreciate the source and sensory aspects of nutrients.
5. Eat with people you enjoy.
6. Eat in the fresh air, spend time in the sunlight.
4. Include Movement in Your Life and Reduce Screen Time
Do not spend time in front of the TV and digital screens. Do activities such as exercise, stretching, walking. Digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems depend on the position and movement of our body.
5. Listen to Yourself
Listen to your body. There are days when the body needs rest, warming up and different nutrition. Our body speaks to us. Give importance to concepts such as developing your intuition and being your own doctor.
6. Connect with Nature
To return to natural life, we need to bring our body closer to nature;
• Stepping on grass, soil, walking barefoot.
• Watching sunrise and sunset.
• Taking deep breaths or meditating.
• Moving our body, spending time in the sunlight and increasing our endorphin levels.
From the moment humans first entered the stage of history to the present day, we have forgotten the knowledge that our ancestors applied to be healthy and live in accordance with nature in city life. Now, as health-conscious individuals discover a natural lifestyle, they also discover the scientific benefits of living close to nature. In this way, people regain their spiritual and physical health, air, water and soil regain their former cleanliness, the damage caused by city life decreases and biodiversity is protected.
Escaping the city and living a life completely integrated with nature may not be accessible, but living more naturally and returning to natural life is possible even in the city! With the steps we have listed above, you can adopt a more natural lifestyle and nourish your body and soul.
Are you saying, ‘‘No… I am so bored, I need to get away for a while’’? Then, how about meeting your need for a comfortable, budget-friendly holiday in touch with nature, while supporting green tourism practices and contributing to preventing climate change?
Come visit Ayvalık Küçükköy!