Connecting mind and body through nature

This appeared on LinkedIn 12 May 2025

A walk in nature to connect mind and body

Have you noticed how your body and mind feel when you pause for a moment and simply look at nature? 

I've been looking more closely at how our wellbeing and nature are connected, especially for those of us raising families in Hong Kong’s vibrant (and sometimes noisy) cityscape. Even here, finding a glimpse of sky between high rises or seeing a resilient little plant on the windowsill can bring a surprising sense of calm. (I love mine at the end of work desk!)

One thing I often return to in the research: neuroscience continues to affirm what so many of us feel deep down—just a few moments in nature can take the edge off stress and restore a bit of peace. And what I find really encouraging is that studies show even looking at nature photos, or giving yourself a moment to visualise a peaceful outdoor scene, can have very real benefits for your brain and body. (Ulrich et al., 1991; Bratman et al., 2015)

This is why I cherish using Points of You® cards in my work. The photo therapy cards offer tiny portals to nature’s gentle steadiness, especially on days when stepping outside just isn’t possible. They encourage pause, reflection and reconnection—reminding us to trust our own inner wisdom and to take a mindful breath.

If you’re a busy mum in Hong Kong, here are a few simple ways I like anchoring to nature in the midst of a packed day:

A peaceful connection with the world outside

• Take 3 mindful breaths while looking at the sky from your window 

• Notice patterns of sunlight and shadow on your commute 

• Keep a small plant on your desk as a quiet nudge to pause and inhale

What about you—where do you find your small moments of nature connection? Maybe it’s a morning tea by the window, maybe it’s choosing a nature photo for your phone background.