“自然” can be used as a noun, an adj. or an adv. in different contexts. So it is equal to nature, natural, or naturally in English.
I'd like to paraphrase its usage in following expressions.
1. 我们要亲近(大)自然。= we should be close to nature.
2. 他的表演很自然。= He performs very naturally.
3. 他神态自然。= He is at ease.
4. 自然资源= natural resources
5. 自然规律= laws of nature
6. 自然现象= natural phenomena
Hopefully the above can help you understand better about 自然。