"La nature sauvage n'est pas un luxe mais une nécessité de l'esprit humain"

Humans need nature. Simple as that. It’s not just about enjoying a beautiful view or getting some fresh air—our very spirit requires it. This idea suggests that our connection to the wild isn't a luxury, something extra or nice if we can get it, but rather a fundamental part of who we are and what we need to thrive.

Historically, this idea has been echoed by many thinkers, from Henry David Thoreau to John Muir. These naturalists and philosophers recognized that nature isn't just a backdrop for our lives but an integral part of our wellbeing. Thoreau, for instance, retreated to the woods of Walden Pond to live deliberately and connect deeply with the natural world. He believed that this connection was essential for a fulfilling life, a sentiment that resonates more now than ever as our lives become increasingly urban and digital.

Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed or stressed. Maybe work was piling up, or personal issues were weighing you down. Now, imagine taking a walk in a forest, hearing the rustling leaves and birds singing. That feeling of your shoulders dropping and your breath slowing? That's not just relaxation—that's your spirit coming alive.

Take the example of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, in Japan. This practice isn't just a nice weekend activity; it's prescribed by doctors. Studies have shown that spending time in forests can lower stress hormones, improve mood, and even boost the immune system. This isn’t about exercise or reaching a destination—it’s about immersing yourself in the natural world and letting it work its magic. It’s a vivid demonstration of how the wild meets essential human needs in a very practical way.

So, how can you bring more of this wisdom into your life? Start small. You don't have to move to the countryside or plan a week-long camping trip. Begin by finding a local park and spending 20 minutes there a few times a week. Pay attention to the details—the way the light filters through the trees, the sound of the wind, the smells after a rain. Let yourself be fully present. You’ll likely find that these small doses of nature have a big impact on your overall mood and well-being.

Let’s think about a relatable story. Imagine Sarah, an overworked marketing executive. She’s always on her phone, juggling deadlines, and feeling constantly frazzled. Her friend, noticing how stressed she is, suggests trying out a local hiking trail. Sarah is skeptical—she’s not exactly the outdoorsy type. But she gives it a shot. The first time she walks the trail, she’s surprised at how the sights and sounds begin to ease her mind. She starts going regularly, and before she knows it, those walks become the highlight of her week. She finds herself more patient, more creative, and—yes—happier. Sarah didn’t need a luxury vacation, she needed the wild. It was a necessity for her spirit.

So next time you feel that tug of nature—don’t ignore it. It’s your spirit reminding you of something fundamental. The wild isn't just out there in the distant wilderness. It can be found in a city park, a quiet backyard, or even a balcony garden. It’s about reconnecting with something real and essential. So, let’s lace up our shoes, head outside, and remember what it feels like to be truly human.