Written By: Lily Goodman

Nature provides so much for us. Food to eat, water to drink, air to breathe, and materials for shelter—to name just a few. However, resources are not all she provides. Nature teaches us lessons all the time. This was a concept that I had not given much thought to until my yoga teacher training. One of our challenges during the training was to embark on a mini-vision quest. We would stay in nature, fast, and embrace meditation for a full day for this exercise. Remaining in a meditative state is difficult since our minds love to wander. Our group worked together to create a list of possible activities to use during this time to bring ourselves back into the present. One of my trainers brilliantly suggested that we ask different parts of nature what it is trying to teach us.​

During my vision quest, I asked the ocean what she was trying to teach me. As I stared out at sea, looking for her response, I received a profound answer. She exhibited the splendor of silence, allowing her actions to broadcast her message. She taught me to be intentional. The ocean glistened and sparkled in the sun, flaunting her beauty without being ashamed. She taught me not to base my actions around others. She demonstrated how to be fierce and direct, no matter the impact. She was not afraid to form massive waves, even if they may have hurt someone. She declared that I stop living in a state of pleasing others and instead honor my desires, as she does. Yet, she also revealed that you can be both powerful and soft. She provides shelter and refuge for all ocean-dwelling animals. Using her waves, she carves beautiful landscapes and forms glowing sea glass. At times, she morphs into a playground for humans and animals to frolic and swim. These actions exemplify the gentle side of mother ocean.​

She is fluid, embodying the knowledge that the only constant is change. Among all these lessons she taught, the last one stuck out to me the most. It is something that I find difficult to embrace; however, her expression of this truth inspires and encourages me to do the same.​

What lessons have you learned from nature? If you can’t think of many, then consider this an opportunity to practice this activity yourself. Find a spot out in nature near you, bring a journal, and turn off your phone. Commit 15 minutes to discover what nature has to teach you. I have no doubt that you will receive profound answers if you open yourself to receiving them.​