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Hi Kimberly,
Have you heard of Vitamin N yet?
I first learned about it at an ACLM conference a few years ago, and it changed how I view stress management. Vitamin N stands for Nature, and while it hasn't yet been designated its own pillar in lifestyle medicine, yet, but it weaves itself beautifully into each of them.
Nature: A Healing Prescription
Nature isn’t just a peaceful escape—it’s powerful medicine. Time in green spaces (like forests, parks, or gardens) and blue spaces (such as oceans, rivers, and lakes) has been shown to significantly impact physical and emotional health. Some evidence-based benefits include:
These findings aren’t just interesting—they’re invitations to step outside and experience healing.
Source:
La Puma, J. (2023). What is Nature-Based Medicine and What Does It Do?
American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, Volume 17, Issue 4.
Forest Bathing & Blue Space Healing
 Spending time in nature isn’t about exercise alone—it’s about presence. There are two primary types of nature as medicine which is green space most notably related to the forest and blue space which is associated with bodies of water.
Forest bathing is simply “taking in the forest atmosphere,” unplugging from tech, slowing down, and using all your senses. It can reduce stress, improve mood, improve immunity, inc Vit D, improve creativity and focus
Similarly, blue space healing (time near water) promotes calm, improves sleep, and eases stress.
My Nature Prescription
Personally, I’ve found that time in nature is one of my greatest sources of clarity, creativity, and calm. Green space, blue space… all of it gives me life.
Whether it’s early morning beach walks, biking the rail trails, or just sitting outside on the catio with the cats, I can feel the stress melt away. I love letting the breeze, birds chirping, or scent of rain surround me. Even open windows can offer a sensory “vitamin N” reset.
 Key West is one of my favorite getaways with it stunning sunrises, tropical color, warmth, and no need for a car when you can bike and walk just everywhere on the island. It’s endless beauty and movement. (The picture to the left is my favorite palm tree in KW. It's on the Gulf Coast of Fort Zachary.)
But the mountains of Tioga County, Pennsylvania, also hold a sacred place in my heart. Thunder rumbles more in the mountains, the change of seasons is remarkable and the stars are endless in the extra dark sky. (The picture above on the right is of the PA Grand Canyon and Pine Creek.)
Both bring me closer to God. Nature allows me to feel and see Him.
Practical Tips for You
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Can’t get out much or too far? Add indoor plants or a tabletop fountain to your space.
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Put it on the calendar. Nature is healing—you’re worth that time.
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Use all five senses when you're outside: smell, touch, sound, sight, taste (if safe!).
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Keep it simple: walk, sit, listen, look up.
Let’s Connect
What are your favorite nature-inspired activities?
Reply to this email or tag me in a photo—I’d love to see what brings you peace and connection.
Feeling stuck in pain or inflammation? Let’s talk.
Book a Find Your Energy Discovery Session if you’re ready to take back control of your health and reduce pain and inflammation.
Join me for a virtual coffee chat or a local coffee chat—let's share what’s going on.
You can also check out my website and enter your info to receive my free guide and get some extra tips along the way: hopeandhealinglifestyle.com
Wishing you peace, healing, and a deep breath of fresh air.
~ Kim
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” — Rachel Carson
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