01/25/2026
This morning my husband and I spent over an hour feeding the birds and watching the gentle snow fall, waiting patiently (and impatiently at times) for them to feast.
Like many of you, the past 48 hours have been rough on my nervous system.
Between the winter storm rolling in and the injustices happening in our country, my body has felt alert, heavy, and tender all at once.
So we did something simple. We tended to the nature right outside our door with love and compassion in our hearts. We watched how nature flows in and around our human world.
We observed the birds cohabitate with one another, explore the seed bounty placed before them, test for safety, remain watchful of our movements.
In doing so, something softened in us. A deep stillness arrived. Breathing slowed. Shoulders dropped. We became quieter observers instead of braced responders.
Snow fell gently and hypnotically, the way a fire flame holds your attention without demanding anything from you. Eyes alert to movement, bodies finding rest.
And in that moment came a remembering: there is so much beauty still present in the natural world, even alongside very real pain and heartbreak.
This is co-regulation with nature, and yes, it’s a real thing. 🌱
Our nervous systems are shaped to respond to rhythm, pattern, predictability, and non-threatening movement.
When we watch birds forage, snow fall, water ripple, or trees sway, our bodies receive cues of safety.
No words required. No fixing. Just presence.
If your nervous system feels frayed right now, here are a few gentle ways to work with nature today: (continued in comments)
