Monday

"I am grounded by the earth beneath me."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Nature’s healing powers

• What is grounding?

• How to live the good life

• Tips for your small garden

• Meet the shorts of the summer

The Healing Power of Nature

Spending time in nature does more than just feel good. It’s actually essential for your health. A study conducted found that just two hours a week in green spaces can significantly improve your health and overall well-being.

Whether it’s a walk in the park or a weekend hike, nature has proven benefits for both the mind and body. The magic number? Two hours a week, which studies have shown brings noticeable improvements to mood, energy, and stress levels.

Nature’s positive effects are wide-ranging. It can help reduce stress hormone levels, lower blood pressure, and even boost immune function. Plus, exposure to green spaces has been shown to reduce anxiety and enhance cognitive function, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. So if you’ve been feeling a bit worn out, a simple walk outdoors might be the reset you need.

Incorporating nature into your routine doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. A quick stroll through a nearby park, sitting in a garden, or even just spending time in a natural setting can make a huge difference. The more immersive your connection to nature, the more benefits you’ll experience, helping you feel more relaxed and mentally clear. Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider stepping outside to find your calm.

Should You Be Spending Time Barefoot?

Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of connecting your body to the earth, typically by walking barefoot on grass, sand, or even lying directly on the ground. While it sounds simple, this technique is gaining popularity due to its potential health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and even helping with chronic pain. The theory behind grounding is that when the body comes into direct contact with the earth, it absorbs electrons that may help counteract free radicals and inflammation.

In one study, massage therapists reported lower levels of stress and pain after using grounding mats for four weeks. Other studies have indicated that grounding could improve sleep, reduce fatigue, and even accelerate wound healing in people with diabetes. While these results are promising, more extensive research is needed to fully understand their effects.

And grounding isn’t just about walking barefoot. It can also be done by using grounding mats or submerging yourself in natural water, like sea or river water. Although it’s generally safe, it's important to be cautious with electrical grounding devices and consult with a healthcare provider. Whether you’re walking barefoot on the grass or trying a grounding mat, this practice may provide a simple way to reconnect with nature and improve your health.

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The good life looks different for everyone, so Cornbread crafts products that make well-rounded wellness easy and accessible. Their Three R’s—Relief, Relaxation, and Revelry—support your physical, mental, and social well-being, inside and out. Their premium hemp products from beverages and gummies, to topicals and tinctures, come from a brand that offers:

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Thank you to Cornbread Hemp for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Tips for Growing a Beautiful Balcony Garden

Creating a beautiful and functional garden on a balcony is a great way to bring some greenery into your living space, even if you have limited room. The key to a successful balcony garden lies in maximizing every inch of your space. Start by considering the vertical dimension: use railings, trellises, or hooks to hang plants and add dimension. You can even repurpose items like old crates or watering cans as creative containers.

Knowing the restrictions of your space is crucial. For example, consider the amount of sunlight your balcony gets and check if there are any weight restrictions before adding large planters. Also, take into account the local climate, wind exposure, and temperature, as these factors will influence the types of plants you choose.

Once you’ve figured out the layout, pick your plants wisely. Choose container-friendly plants like herbs, small vegetables, or dwarf fruit trees. For sunny balconies, herbs like basil and thyme thrive, while shady spots are perfect for ferns or ivy. Don’t forget to invest in sturdy, lightweight containers that allow for good drainage.

With a little bit of thought, your balcony can become a personal urban sanctuary, offering a peaceful escape and a touch of nature right outside your door.

The Shorts You Didn't Know You Needed

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: Just 2 hours a week in nature can improve your wellbeing and reduce stress-related symptoms.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: The natural world moves in cycles—rest, growth, stillness, change. You’re allowed to follow that rhythm too.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!