Coming Home to Nature: How Earth Medicine & Biophilic Design Nourish our Minds, Bodies, Spirits AND Spaces

Erin
13 minutes ago
13 min read

“Harmony with nature is the highest law.”

Ancient Taoist principle

In today’s fast-paced, digitally saturated culture, feeling overwhelmed, depleted, and out of sync has become almost normal. We live indoors, stare at screens, move quickly, and rarely pause long enough to feel our own bodies—let alone the earth beneath our feet.

Yet when we go back to our roots and spend time outdoors, something ancient stirs. Our nervous systems soften. Our breath deepens. We remember ourselves.

Modern life creates the illusion of separation, but our biology never forgot. When we step into nature, we are not escaping reality—we are actually returning home.

From a feng shui perspective, this is no coincidence. Nature is not a luxury or aesthetic preference—it is the original source of balanced energy, or Qi. When we reconnect with the natural world, we reconnect with ourselves.

This post explores nature’s role in our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and how feng shui helps us understand why nature heals—and how to invite more of it into our lives.

The root of the words human and humulity comes from the Latin word 'humus', or living soil. To be truly human is to be of the land, and to be humble before it. The soil is not dead matter—it is alive, just as we are. Always remember where you come from and live in reverence with the ground beneath our feet.

We Are Nature (Even If We Forget)

Humans are not separate from nature—we are an expression and extension of it. We evolved within Earth’s ecosystems and remain dependent on them for survival. Our bodies are made of the same elements as soil, water, plants, and air. We breathe oxygen created by trees, rely on microorganisms to digest food, and move in circadian rhythms shaped by sunlight and darkness.

There’s a reason why walking in nature is one of the most common pieces of advice given during depression or burnout. It’s not just poetic. It’s physiological, neurological, and energetic.

Nature is not only outside of us, she is also within us. Beneath the chaos and confusion of the man-made world lies our true identity. We are as much expressions of the Universe as a galaxy, planet, river, cloud or tree. We are the air and water and sunlight of the earth, in human form. We are Life, unique expressions of cosmic creativity.

Remember that you are Air - Observe. Breathe. Focus. Decide.

Remember that you are Fire -Burn. Tame. Adapt. Ignite.

Remember that you are Water - Cry. Cleanse. Flow. Let go.

Remember that you are Earth - Ground. Give. Build. Heal.

Remember that you are Spirit - Connect. Listen. Know. Be still.

"You are not a lover of nature, or a fan of nature, you ‘are’ nature. You are as much nature as the trees in your garden and the bees on your picnic.

You were designed to live your days out in the wild with your fellow creatures and plants but progress, humanity, had different plans for us all. And so we exist day-to-day, in our homes, but never ‘home’.

The quickest route back to self, to inner peace, is bare feet on grass, arms around trees, head in the clouds and heart in a forest. Put your bones in water, whenever you can, smell each flower you see and crumble dirt between your tired-of-typing fingers.

You are nature, go home once in a while. It will bring you much you didn’t even know you were missing."

Donna Ashworth

In feng shui and Taoist philosophy, energy stagnates when we are disconnected from natural rhythms. Nature restores flow.

Recharging & Rebalancing Our Chi

Feng shui is fundamentally rooted in the teachings and themes of nature, drawing its wisdom from the observation of natural landscapes, seasonal cycles, and the way life thrives in balance with its environment.

Originating from ancient Chinese cosmology and Taoist philosophy, feng shui mirrors the patterns found in mountains, rivers, wind, sunlight, and vegetation, understanding them as expressions of qi—the vital life force that flows through all living systems.

Just as water naturally seeks a clear, meandering path and plants grow toward light, feng shui guides the placement and design of spaces to support ease, nourishment, and vitality rather than resistance or stagnation.

By working with the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—feng shui translates nature’s rhythms into the built environment, helping human spaces function more like healthy ecosystems. At its core, feng shui is not about decoration or superstition, but about remembering that our homes, workplaces, and cities are extensions of the natural world—and that when our environments are aligned with nature, our bodies, minds, and spirits respond in kind.

"Sometimes your body is asking for wood, for water, for the kindness of round things——this is a nervous system remembering what safe feels like."

Ru Kotryna

We are overstimulated and undertouched beings. Surrounded by rectangles. Hurrying through places. But your body still remembers.

Spaces That Heal

Our brains evolved in natural environments, not rectangular rooms filled with sharp angles, artificial light, and constant noise. Feng shui has always emphasized this truth: the body responds to form.

Sharp angles and jagged lines subtly signal danger, triggering alertness and stress—much like thorns or weapons would in the wild.
Curved, organic forms are processed more easily by the brain, lowering cortisol and signaling safety. They remind us of bodies, handmade shelters, hills, bowls, and branches.

Natural materials tell a story our nervous system understands instinctively:

Wood lowers heart rate and blood pressure.
Grain, knots, texture, and variation create what psychologists call soft fascination—the kind of attention that restores rather than drains.
In a world of drywall and laminate, wood is evidence that something once lived.

Even sound matters. Nature sounds activate the parasympathetic nervous system and tell the body: you’re safe now.

When we return to wood, water and curving lines we return to pre-language forms of safety. This isnt about trends and luxuries. It's about design that honors human biology and the nervous system.

Earth Verse

Wide enough to keep you looking

Open enough to keep you moving

Dry enough to keep you honest

Prickly enough to make you tough

Green enough to go on living

Old enough to give you dreams

Gary Snyder

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is based on the idea that humans thrive when we stay connected to nature, even in built environments. Its core principles focus on supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being through intentional design choices. At its core, biophilic design isn’t decorative; it’s about creating environments that support our human biology - our nervous systems and our innate need to feel a sense of belonging.

The basics include:

Incorporating natural elements such as plants, water features, natural light, fresh air, and views of greenery or sky.
Using natural materials (wood, stone, clay, bamboo.), organic textures, botanical patterns, and earth-based color palettes that evoke the natural world.
Maximizing natural light and airflow- creating gentle transitions between light and shadow, and supporting natural ventilation to regulate circadian rhythms and comfort.
Engaging the senses through soft sounds, subtle movement, tactile materials, and natural scents—while avoiding harsh, overstimulating inputs.
Designing with local ecology, climate, and cultural context in mind so spaces feel grounded and meaningful rather than generic.
Balancing refuge vs prospect- areas where people feel sheltered and safe with open views or visual depth, supporting nervous system regulation.
Allowing for natural variation—changing light throughout the day, seasonal elements, and gentle movement—to mirror nature’s cycles.

Biophilia is the innate human affinity for nature and living systems. Feng shui is essentially biophilia in practice—designing thoughful spaces that support life energy rather than drain it. allowing us to integrate nature into our daily lives as our ancestors did.

Sensory details matter! There are little tweaks you can do at home or work to make your space a safe-haven.

Maximize natural light by keeping window coverings open during day
Add indoor plants to every room and keep them in good health
Details matter. Try Rivier stones in sink, wooden utensils on dining rable, driftwood by the bathtub, crystals on your desk
Position living and dining room seating to face windows or views of nature
Install bird feeders or bird baths in exterior
Incorporating the color green
Incorporate water elements - fountains, aquariums, soothing water imagery
Play nature sounds: rain, creeksides, oceans, wind in trees, bird songs

Green isn’t just visual. Humans can see more shades of green than any other color. Our eyes evolved scanning green in our environments at cues for safety, water, and rest. Let your eyes rest on green whenever possible.

Reminder: Energy must be real and authentic to nourish us. No imitation can replace genuine connection, stillness, nourishment, or belonging.

Nature’s Prescriptions

Spending time in nature supports wellness on every level. Many wellness trends are simply expensive recreations of what nature already offers. The natural world - the water, air, earth, wood- remains the most free, ancient and effective form of healing we have, helping to restore balance to all parts of the brain and body:

Physically, natural environments help through gentle movement, sunlight (vitamin D), and fresh air.

regulate sleep
balance hormones
boost energy
reduce blood pressure
support immunity
lower cortisol
reduce inflammation

Air moves us. Fire transforms us. Water shapes us. Earth heals us. Nature is our refillable prescription to holistic wellness.

Mentally, nature calms the nervous system and reduces mental fatigue by giving the brain a break from constant stimulation, sensory overwhelm, and decision-making.

improve focus
reduce stress
reduce hyperactivity
support neurodivergence (no masking or performance)

Emotionally, being among trees, water, and open skies fosters a sense of safety, perspective, and connection that restores a sense of balance and inner peace

ease anxiety
lift mood
reduce stress
regulate emotions
foster connection
boost compassion

Even brief, regular contact with nature can create measurable improvements in overall well-being.

You can easily integrate nature into your daily life with micro-breaks outdoors through walks, gardening, stretching. or meditation outdoors. Unplug and observe what's around you, letting your body remember it's most familiar, comfortable and safe rhythm. Let yourself fall into a meditative, drifting state.

Watch, gaze and bask in the sunrise or sunset.
Touch the soil, sand or stone with your skin.

When you stop to watch insects, notice dewdrops, touch moss you're remembering what the rest of us have forgotten. how to do - to slow down, to be present, and to be grateful for miracles of life.

When we spend time outside:

We breathe cleaner air and increase oxygen, supporting energy production and mental clarity.
Sunlight regulates circadian rhythms, hormones, and mood.
The stillness of nature quiets mental chatter, allowing intuition and insight to surface.

Trees ground excess energy. Water cleanses. Sunlight uplifts. Nature doesn’t force healing—it creates the conditions for it.

Nature is a mecca for FREE wellness practices: Stargazing. Sungazing. Firegazing. Treegazing. Sunbathing. Rainbathing. Forest bathing. Wild Edibles. Earthing. Grounding. Breathwork.

Nature doesn't negotiate, wait, fear, beg, chase, ask for permission. It devours, destroys transforms without apology. Fire clears the path through the forest. Water carves the path through mountains. Earth turns death into life. The Moon commands illumination. The Sun fuels remembrance.

Connect With The Spirit of Nature

Connecting with the elements is how we heal, remember, and return to ourselves.

"If you're feeling lost, go put your bare feet in the dirt and introduce yourself to land out loud. Apologize for harm done to it and ask it to honor and protect you anyway. Get still and quiet to hear the answer - a breeze, an animal or a sudden inner knowing. The Earth remembers everything, including you."

To live fully, we must remember the old ways—the foundations of who we are and where we come from. The elements (earth, fire, wind, water, wood) shaped the world and everything within it, including us.

Speak to them as kin, and ask them for guidance and support in exchange for your attention, your stillness, your kindness, and your compassion.

When you feel…

Stagnant — turn to Air. Ask it to bring you into the present moment and clear your mind.
Attached — turn to Water. Let it teach you movement, flow, and release.
Numb — turn to Fire. Invite it to transmute stillness into warmth, passion, and aliveness.
Hopeless — turn to Earth. Let it teach you about grounding, death, renewal, and rebirth.
Broken — turn to the Moon. Ask it to shine light into what feels hidden and fragmented.
Powerless — turn to the Sun. Let it reignite your strength, vitality, and sense of purpose.
L0st- say a prayer to all of the planet

Earth Below and Sky above,

May I feel the comfort of your protection and love

My strength returns, my heart is light,

Embraced by earth’s enduring might.

Charged by forces, old and wise,

I rise anew, my spirits rise.

By Earth’s deep power, strong and wide,

Through roots and stone, my fears subside.

A sacred thread connects us tight,

Bringing balance, strength, and light.

Into the soil, my burdens fade,

Renewed in peace, no longer weighed.

Like rivers gentle, calm and free,

The earth restores and anchors me.

I welcome now this sacred shift,

With love and power, I uplift.

So let it be, my path is free,

Aligned with nature’s harmony.

Nature speaks to those who listen:

Earth Whispers: Slow down. Ground Yourself. Remain centered, even in chaos.

Air Invites: Breathe. Free your thoughts. Widen your perspective.

Fire Calls: Be bold. Let your light shine. Ignite your truth.

Water Guides: Feel. Let go of what must flow away. Embrace what is to come.

Gaia is the primordial Greek goddess of the Earth, often considered the personification of the planet itself. She is one of the first deities in Greek mythology, emerging from Chaos and giving birth to the sky , the sea and the soil. As the mother of all life, she represents fertility, nature, and the interconnectedness of all living things.

Elemental Practices

Earth — Place your hands on the soil. " Make me solid, steady, and strong like the mountains.”
Air — Let the wind brush your skin. “Clear me. Carry my voice.”
Fire — Light a flame and gaze into it. “Burn away what no longer belongs. Spark my courage to begin again.”
Water — Drink, bathe, or cry.“Flow through me. Wash what is heavy. Soften what has hardened.”
Ether — Rest in stillness.“I am the space between. I am whole.”

Through the power of awe, Nature inspires us to be better people— building connection and compassion to the world around us. It restores meaning to life, reminding us that we are part of something larger and wiser. We begin to relate to the world as a living system to care for more than a resource to extract from.

"We are not escaping to nature, just returning to where we truly belong."

Wrapping It Up

Nature is not a backdrop to our lives—it is a partner in our healing. The more we align with nature’s wisdom, the more we reclaim our own.

From a feng shui perspective, aligning with nature restores Qi and vitality to stagnant spaces. Inner calm isn't a mental condition. It's a material condition.

The next time you feel drained, scattered, or disconnected, don’t look for another solution to buy.

Simply step outside, where the best medicine has been waiting all along.

"To rest, go to the woods

Where what is made is made

Without your thought or work.

Sit down; begin the wait

For small trees to grow big,

Feeding on earth and light.

Their good result is song

The winds must bring, that trees

Must wait to sing, and sing

Longer than you can wait.

Soon you must go. The trees,

Your seniors, standing thus

Acknowledge in your eyes,

Stand as your praise and prayer.

Your rest is in this praise

Of what you cannot be

And what you cannot do."

Wendell Berry

"There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature—the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after the winter." -Rachel Carson
"The Earth is not a resource to be exploited, but a community to which we belong." -Vandana Shiva
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order." -John Burroughs,
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."-Albert Einstein
"We depend on the gifts of nature, but these must be received with gratitude and not exploited or abused"
-Satish Kumar
"Colonialism didn't just steal land- it rewrote the story of nature. It taught us to see earth as something to dominate, not something to belong to. The fight for decolonization and deconditioning is the fight to unlearn this and rebuild our relationship with the planet." -Quinten Langes
"There's a revolution that needs to happen and it starts inside each one of us. We need to wake up and fall in love with the Earth. Our personal and collective happiness and survival depends on it." -Thich Nhat Hanh
"The earth has witnessed every beginning and she waits patiently for us to return and remember. We were never meant to conquier the earth but to move with her, to honor her rhythm and live in her light. To protect her is to protect the oldest part of ourselves. To listen to her is to come back to our truth. We were never separate from her. We only forgot." -Laura Verdejo
"There is nothing wrong with having a tree as a friend" -Bob Ross
"Consciousness sleeps in minerals, dreams in plants, wakes in animals and becomes self-aware in humans" - Rumi
“Mountains walking is just like human walking. Accordingly, do not doubt mountains walking even though it does not look the same as human walking. The buddha ancestors’ words point to walking. This is fundamental understanding. You should penetrate these words. Because green mountains walk, they are permanent. Although they walk more swiftly that the wind, someone in the mountains does not realize or understand. “In the mountains” means the blossoming of the entire world. People outside the mountains do not realize or understand it. Those without eyes to see mountains cannot realize, understand, see, or hear this as it is. Do not view mountains from the scale of human thought. If you do not judge mountains’ flowing by the human understanding of flowing, you will not doubt mountains’ flowing and not-flowing.” -Dogen
“What I am really saying is that you don’t need to do anything, because if you see yourself in the correct way, you are all as much extraordinary phenomenon of nature as trees, clouds, the patterns in running water, the flickering of fire, the arrangement of the stars, and the form of a galaxy. You are all just like that, and there is nothing wrong with you at all.” -Alan Watts
"You are not meant to be resilient. You are meant to be regenerative. There is a difference. Resilience is surviving the storm. Regeneration is making love to the rain until it turns you into a forest." -Christopher Sexton
"The sleeping ones go inside buildings to talk to God. The awakened ones go outside to nature to listen to the Creator." - Unknown
"Knowing that you love the earth changes you, activates you to defend and protect and celebrate. But when you feel that the earth loves you in return, that feeling transforms the relationship from a one-way street into a sacred bond.” Robin Wall Kimmerer
"No one owns the water, land oceans, sand. These are given by our mother, provided for free. Only by the hands of the greedy does the earth require a fee." - Unknown
"When we pay attention to nature’s music we find that everything on the earth contributes to its harmony. The trees joyously wave their branches in rhythm with the wind; the sound of the sea, the murmuring of the breeze, the whistling of the wind through the rocks, hills and mountains, the flash of the lightning, the crash of the thunder, the harmony of the sun and moon, the movements of the stars and planets, the blooming of the flower, the fading of the leaf, the regular alternation of the morning, evening, noon and night - all reveal to the seer the music of nature.” -Sufi Master Hazrat Inayat Khan

“Remember the sky that you were born under, know each of the star’s stories.

Remember the moon, know who she is.

Remember the sun’s birth at dawn, that is the strongest point of time.

Remember sundown and the giving away tonight.

Remember the plants, trees, animal life who all have their tribes, their families, their histories, too.

Talk to them, listen to them. They are alive poems.

Remember the wind. Remember her voice.

She knows the origin of this universe."

Joy Harjo (Muscogee/Creek Nation

Erin is a certified feng shui consultant, energy healer, wellness coach and holistic growth strategist.

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