For women who have endured trauma, especially those living in conflict zones like Iran and Afghanistan, healing often feels impossible. The weight of violence, oppression, and loss can make the world seem small, suffocating, and hopeless. But at the Omid Foundation, we have seen how one simple yet powerful tool can help survivors begin their journey toward healing: nature.
Reconnecting with the earth—whether through walking in a park, feeling the sun on one’s skin, tending to plants, or simply listening to the wind—has a profound effect on mental and emotional well-being. The natural world reminds survivors that they are part of something greater, something alive and resilient, just like them.
The Healing Power of Nature
Trauma disrupts the nervous system, keeping survivors trapped in a state of fear and stress. Nature, however, has a unique ability to calm the mind and restore balance. Studies show that spending time in nature reduces anxiety, lowers stress levels, and helps regulate emotions.
For survivors of violence, the natural world offers:
- A Sense of Safety – Unlike crowded or chaotic environments, nature provides a quiet space where survivors can breathe and feel at peace.
- Emotional Grounding – The simple act of touching the earth, feeling water, or observing the sky can help survivors reconnect with their bodies and the present moment.
- A Symbol of Resilience – Nature teaches an important lesson: no matter how much destruction occurs, growth is always possible. A burned forest regrows, a broken branch heals, and a fallen leaf nourishes the soil.
Ways to Reconnect with Nature
Not everyone has access to large green spaces, but even small interactions with nature can be powerful. Here are some simple ways trauma survivors can reconnect with the earth:
1. Walking in Natural Spaces
Even a short walk in a garden, near trees, or along a quiet street can help clear the mind and reduce stress. Focusing on small details—the feel of the breeze, the sound of birds, or the scent of flowers—brings a sense of calm.
2. Gardening or Caring for Plants
Tending to plants, even in a small pot on a windowsill, is a reminder that growth and life continue. Watching something flourish under care can be deeply healing for trauma survivors.
3. Grounding Techniques
Simply placing bare feet on grass, touching the soil, or holding a smooth stone can provide a sense of stability and connection to the present moment.
4. Meditation in Nature
Practicing mindfulness outdoors—breathing deeply, listening to nature’s sounds, and observing the environment—helps survivors find inner peace.
Nature as a Path to Hope
At the Omid Foundation, we encourage survivors to embrace nature as a source of healing. Trauma often leaves people feeling disconnected from themselves and the world, but the earth is always there—steady, nurturing, and full of quiet wisdom.
Reconnecting with nature is a reminder that just as the earth renews itself, so can we. And just as the seasons change, so too can our pain transform into strength.
