Nature, aside from being captivating and fascinating, is generous. It provides so many different things for us: from flourishing flowers and curious creatures to our food, water, day-to-day resources, and the air we breathe. It offers us a space to recharge and regenerate, to enhance our well-being, and provides us with the opportunities to explore new landscapes and seek out new adventures. It gives us all this freely, for no fee or bargain; all nature asks of us in return is our respect.
When we respect nature and all it has to offer, then we get to experience it at its best; it’s at its cleanest, safest, and most enjoyable. There are plenty of ways in which we can demonstrate our gratitude to the natural world, and they don’t require much in the form of effort on our part.
Respect Nature’s Power
One of the first and probably most important ways to show your respect is to be aware of the sheer power and strength that nature has. From the ever-changing tides and currents of the ocean to heavy mists on hiking trails and severe storms that take us by surprise – nature is beautiful but also deadly. By acknowledging this danger, you can prepare and ensure that your time spent in it is as safe as it can be. Do your research on the areas you are visiting and get clued up on any dangers you might encounter. Respect nature’s ever-changing personality.
Respect Flora and Fauna
Sometimes one of the most respectful things we can do is to watch from a distance. Stumbling upon a wild animal is always incredible, whether that’s a deer, mountain goat, or even the tiniest of caterpillars crawling across a leaf. But remember, these creatures are all going about their daily routine, trying to survive. They’re going to get pretty stressed out if they come face to face with a human that wants to pursue them and will probably force them to use up energy resources that they can’t afford to waste. Unless you can stealthily get close to a creature without preventing its normal behavior, then watch from a distance. Perhaps take a photo, or just be content with soaking in the experience.
Leave Natural Things in Nature
Try not to take too much from nature. Whether that’s foraging food or wild plants, be aware of what you are taking. Is the species endangered? Are you leaving enough to ensure that animals in the area have enough to eat? We need to be considerate and learn to share resources with the wild world – do you need to pick that wildflower, or would a photograph suffice?
Also, be sure to take your litter home with you and recycle it appropriately. It’s not only unsightly but massively detrimental to the environment.
As nature-lovers, it is our responsibility to show our respect; we should also encourage others to show theirs, for the thing that gives us so much, so freely. Without nature, we would lose everything, so let’s work on keeping it.
