The Vital Need for Nature in Pregnancy and Pre-Conception and How to Find It in Los Angeles

Remembering our connection with nature isn't just about stepping into the wilderness; it's about reclaiming our connection to the natural world in all its forms. It's about recognizing that we are not separate from nature, but rather an integral part of it. This means not only embracing the wild spaces around us but also cultivating a deeper appreciation for the beauty and abundance of the Earth in our everyday lives.

As we step into April, we find ourselves in the midst of a season teeming with life and renewal. The trees are budding, oranges are exploding, the flowers are blooming, and the air is alive with birdsong. It's a time of rebirth, of new beginnings – much like the spirit of Easter itself.

Easter, with its themes of resurrection and transformation, offers us a powerful metaphor for our own journey of re-connection with nature during pregnancy or pre-conception. Just as the Easter story speaks to the promise of new life emerging from the darkness, so too does re-wilding invite us to shed the trappings of modern life and rediscover the wildness that lies within us.

But it's not just about spiritual renewal – it's also about taking concrete action to honor and protect the Earth that sustains us. And what better time to do that than Earth Day, celebrated on April 22nd. And reconnecting with nature and living in harmony with the Earth, is a perfect fit for this mission.

Whether you're already glowing with the miracle of pregnancy or simply longing to bring new life into this world, I'm here to chat about something truly magical – your innate connection with nature. Think of it as a return to our roots, a rediscovery of our primal connection with the natural world. It's about adopting the untamed wilderness within us and without, allowing the rhythms of nature to guide and nurture us along the way.

WHAT ARE THE DISTINCT BENEFITS OF NATURE AND RHYTHM DURING PREGNANCY OR PRE-CONCEPTION?

Stress Reduction: Nature immersion helps lower stress levels, promoting a calm and relaxed state beneficial for conception and pregnancy.

Hormonal Balance: Exposure to natural sunlight, especially in the morning, regulates hormones crucial for reproductive health and mood stability.

Enhanced Sleep: Aligning with natural rhythms supports better sleep patterns, crucial for fertility and overall well-being during pregnancy.

Improved Immunity: Time spent in nature strengthens the immune system, reducing the risk of illness for both mother and baby.

Emotional Well-Being: Connecting with natural cycles and elements fosters emotional stability, reducing anxiety and promoting a positive mindset.

Physical Health: Outdoor activities like walking or swimming support physical fitness, promoting a healthy pregnancy and smoother childbirth.

Bonding with Baby: Engaging with nature fosters a deeper connection between mother and child, enhancing the prenatal experience and laying a foundation for a strong bond post-birth.

HERE ARE A FEW MORE TIPS TO HELP YOU RECONNECT WITH NATURE AND EMBRACE THE WILD WITHIN:

Forest Bathing: Take a leisurely stroll through the woods, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. Let the earth beneath your feet ground you, and the whispering leaves above soothe your soul.

Gardening: Get your hands dirty and reconnect with the earth by tending to a garden. Not only is it a great way to get some gentle exercise, but it's also incredibly therapeutic and rewarding.

Nature Meditation: Find a quiet spot outdoors and simply sit, breathe, and be. Let the sounds of nature wash over you, grounding you in the present moment and filling you with a sense of peace and calm.

Wild Swimming: If you're lucky enough to live near a natural body of water, why not take a dip? There's something incredibly invigorating about swimming in the wild – just be sure to check for safety first!

Take a moment to honor yourself, to honor the incredible journey you're embarking on. And always remember – nature is not just out there, it's within you, waiting to be rediscovered, waiting to be embraced. 

Better yet, make it social. We are social creatures, and many of us long for the sense of village and community more than ever as we teeter on the edge of motherhood.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO CONNECT TO NATURE TOGETHER:

Earth Day Cleanup: Gather friends, family, and neighbors for a community cleanup event. Spend the day beautifying local parks, trails, and beaches, and take pride in knowing that you're making a positive impact on the environment.

Planting Party: Get your hands dirty and plant a garden! Whether it's flowers, vegetables, or herbs, there's something incredibly rewarding about watching new life take root and grow. Plus, it's a great way to support pollinators and create habitat for local wildlife.

Nature Walks: Take advantage of the mild April weather and go for a leisurely stroll in nature. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. You might be surprised at how rejuvenating it can be!

WHILE WE TEND TO LAUD LOS ANGELES FOR ITS CITY LIFE AND ICONIC LANDMARKS, THERE ARE STILL SOME FANTASTIC OPTIONS FOR CONNECTING WITH NATURE:

Malibu Creek State Park: Located just northwest of Los Angeles, Malibu Creek State Park offers a beautiful natural setting with several swimming holes along the creek. The Rock Pool is a popular spot for swimming, with clear, refreshing water surrounded by stunning rock formations.

Eaton Canyon Falls: I grew up in Altadena, and this waterfall is a part of my childhood memories. This waterfall is in the San Gabriel Mountains, just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles. While the hike to the falls can be a bit challenging, the reward of swimming beneath the cascading water is well worth it, especially on a hot day. (Disclaimer: sometimes it’s cascading, but in peak summer, it can be a beautiful trickle!)

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: Stretching from the Hollywood Hills to the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Mountains offer numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including wild swimming. Look for secluded pools and streams in areas like Solstice Canyon or Topanga State Park.

Angeles National Forest: Head to areas like Sturtevant Falls or Hermit Falls for refreshing swimming holes surrounded by lush greenery.

Griffith Park: Reward yourself with views of the observatory and downtown’s skyline when you hike to the top!

(Before embarking on any wild swimming adventure, it's essential to check local regulations and safety information, especially regarding water quality and potential hazards.)

In the end, re-connecting with nature isn't just a solitary pursuit – it's a collective awakening, a shared journey towards a more harmonious relationship with ourselves, the Earth and all its inhabitants. Cherish the wildness within you and celebrate the beauty and wonder of the natural world, not just in April, but every day of the year. After all, the Earth is not just our home – it's our most precious gift, and it's up to us to cherish and protect it for generations to come. The generation housed in your sacred womb.