Once we’ve begun to lean into nature, we can easily see how plants teach us life skills. Years ago, I would have thought someone was a bit nuts to make this remark. And yet, here I am, tuning into my higher self and nature daily, as I practice my yoga and tend to my plants. There are many ways to develop and grow as you progress along your life’s journey. One activity that teaches me valuable life skills is gardening. Whether you’re already comfortable in the garden or looking to sink into something new, this article is for you. Tending to my plants teaches me valuable life skills, and today, I’m going to share a glimpse into that relationship with you.
Self vs. Nature
My plants are living, breathing things that rely on me to stay alive. Although plants survive on their own in nature, they are my responsibility when I decide to take them in. In this, my life focus changes from being self-centered to being nurturing. Plants communicate when their bodies require nourishment to stay alive. I pay close attention to their visual clues to ensure that they are taken care of. When I see withered leaves, sometimes the solution is to water the roots and at other times it is to spray the leaves. They show me that what is presented on the outside is sometimes unreflective of what is happening beneath the surface. A nourished soul goes hand in hand with a well-maintained exterior. Plants, like me, sometimes require a different remedy for optimal health. Giving care and attention to my plants shows me that emotional support is as important as physical nourishment. Today, I am happy to have examples of how to carry on through life and do so successfully. When nature shows me how to nurture and protect the things that I love, my highest self and all those around me benefit exponentially.
Enrich Your Personal Growth & Development
There are many ways to develop yourself and grow in new areas. Perhaps gardening can become a growth and development tool for you. If this resonates with your highest self, the following list is just a few of the ways that the magic of the garden can complement your yogic lifestyle practices and assist you as you evolve.
- Connection
- Partnership
- Symbiotic Relationships
- Self-discipline
- Non-verbal Communication
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Wellness
- Maintenance
- Natural Cycles
- Contentment
Self-Reflection Questions:
- What does tending to plants teach me about balance?
- Where do I get advice when I am unsure of how to help someone?
- How do I determine what someone needs from me to thrive?
If learning how plants teach us life skills appeals to you, I encourage you to check out the Garden Therapy section for additional tips, tools and reading to support you forward. From one gardener to another, I do hope that you’ll share the wisdom you gain in the garden with us. After all, together we grow. Just as my smiles are brighter when I have the comfort of loved ones during difficult times; plants remind me to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and focus on those who rely on me. Healthy symbiotic relationships facilitate synergy.
Be well.
Tend Your Garden.