Nature is our larger body and the foundation of our existence. We are literally exchanging each breath with her. She is the source of the water we drink and the food we eat and she provides us with resources, medicines, and materials for our homes and our creations. But beyond her utilitarian value, nature also holds immense aesthetic, cultural, and spiritual significance. It is a source of beauty and inspiration, and it has the power to nourish our souls and elevate our spirits. Moreover, nature plays a critical role in maintaining our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower stress levels, improve cognitive function, boost our immune systems, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. It also provides opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and learning, However, the importance of nature goes beyond our individual well-being and it is also vital for the health of our planet as a whole.

Time spent in nature, mindfully waking the intelligence of our sensing bodies is a time well spent!

Dostoevsky famously said, “Beauty will save the world,” a quote that may seem overly idealistic out of context. However, Dostoevsky’s view of beauty goes beyond its superficial appearance, as it inspires us to be our best selves, pursue goodness and truth, and forge connections with one another.

Beauty is the embodiment of harmony in diversity, a place where disparate elements come together seamlessly, creating a sense of belonging. This quality is abundant in nature, where patterns that have evolved over millions of years are present, including the Golden Ratio, which is visible from the smallest to the largest scales, in living and non-living systems. Our ability to appreciate and value beauty is critical to our overall well-being. The more time we spend experiencing beauty, the more centered and content we feel. Beauty has the ability to educate us on how how to become the best versions of ourselves, touching all aspects of our existence.

Experiencing nature in Messinia is a truly special opportunity. The region boasts an abundance of lush greenery and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature connection walks. With its diverse range of environments, including forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and beaches, Messinia is a sparsely populated area where the natural habitat is complemented by man-made cultural landscapes of olive groves and vineyards. The ancient olive tree plantations that have thrived here for millennia have been a source of wealth, health, beauty, pride, and fame for the Messinians.

Protected areas such as Gialova Lagoon, Neda Valley, Polylimnio Waterfalls, and Taygetos Mountains are located in this region, offering tranquil and rejuvenating opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. All in all, forest bathing walks in Messinia can be a powerful way to boost physical and mental health, while also providing a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience in one of Greece’s most stunning regions.