Denzil

Nature Photo Challenge #14: Your haven of peace

For Nature Photo Challenge #14 you are invited to share photos of your own haven of peace in nature, and the benefits you enjoy there

Spending time in nature can have numerous benefits for our health and well-being. Here are five ways that immersing yourself in a peaceful natural environment can be beneficial:

Nature has a calming and stress-reducing effect on our minds and bodies. Being in a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of daily life can help reduce stress levels. The tranquility of nature, the soothing sounds of birds chirping or water flowing, and the fresh air can promote relaxation and help alleviate anxiety and tension.

Nature has been found to have a positive impact on mental health. Spending time in a peaceful natural setting can boost mood, increase happiness, and reduce symptoms of depression. Being surrounded by greenery and natural beauty can provide a sense of serenity, promote mindfulness, and enhance overall psychological well-being.

Engaging with nature often involves physical activity. Regular physical activity in natural surroundings can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, and help maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, spending time in nature exposes us to natural sunlight, which is a crucial source of vitamin D, essential for bone health and overall immune system function.

Nature has been shown to boost creativity and cognitive function. Being in a peaceful haven of nature can stimulate our senses, inspire new ideas, and improve problem-solving abilities. Research suggests that spending time outdoors can enhance attention, focus, and memory, making it an excellent way to recharge and improve cognitive performance.

Spending time in nature allows us to connect with the natural world, fostering a sense of awe, appreciation, and gratitude. Being in a haven of peace surrounded by trees, plants, and wildlife can create a deep sense of connection and belonging. This connection with nature has been associated with increased environmental awareness, conservation behaviors, and a greater understanding of our role in the larger ecosystem.

Where and what is your haven of peace, your oasis of calm?

How do you benefit from going there?

Even by sharing just one photo and one benefit, it could inspire others to go to a similar place of peace and enjoy the benefits of being in nature.

This is mine.

Abbey Park Kortenberg

It’s my local park, thankfully just a short walk from our apartment. I try to go there every morning before breakfast for a slow 30-minute stroll.

Nature photo challenge #14

I observe and greet the trees, the lake, and the birds, utter a prayer of thankfulness, take some photos, and say hello to the occasional human who’s up and about.

#naturephotochallenge No. 14

I always return feeling refreshed, calm and at peace.

Looking forward to seeing and reading about your own special place of tranquility in nature!

If you are new to the nature photo challenge, check this out.

73 comments

  11. That does look like a lovely spot and a great start to any day, Denzil. Although I don’t visit my special place as often, this spot I am sharing is a place of peace, tranquility, and a connection to a beloved pet.
    I call it Murphy Falls after my late beagle. When he died I was quite forlorn and decided to visit this sall waterfall in a favorite brook a few miles from home. Now whenever I need a place of solace, and memories of him, I visit here and sometimes make images and other times just be. But besides Murphy Falls, most anyplace in the woods and meadows is a place of peace and recharge.

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    • Thanks for sharing this gorgeous image Steve, and the reason why it’s so special. I can just picture Murphy standing on that rocky outcrop near-right, looking into the water and wondering whether to jump in or not. His spirit surely lives on here.

      Liked by 1 person

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    • I like that idea Dawn, taking time to reach your destination and enjoying the journey, instead of taking the faster, shorter way and arriving frazzled!

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  17. […] Haven of Peace is this weeks Nature Photo Challenge. What place in nature is restorative, calming and generally good for your health? My heart rate slows and my breathing becomes deeper every time I step foot down the path to the trees and stream in Wildcat Canyon in Tilden Park in the hills a few miles from home. Light and shadow, moss and stone hold me, fold me reassure me all is well in the world. […]

    Liked by 1 person

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    • Love that garden pond you have constructed Audrey. I can imagine the heron visiting it (that you mentioned in an earlier challenge) looking for a tasty morsel.

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    • Thanks for contributing this interesting and different place Jude, that I can imagine is a real oasis of tranquility amongst the ice-creams of St. Ives.

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