I have found that when I make a conscious effort to regularly connect with nature in some way, that I am much more energised, productive, creative and inspired in my work and life.
However, as someone who juggles a lot of balls, I don’t get to spend as much time as I would like outdoors. For this reason, I have been trying to think of more novel ways to infuse nature into my daily life. I mentioned a few of these steps to enjoy in Nature – but thought I would share more in this article in case it helps you find new ways to connect with nature and experience the benefits in your daily life too.
Take short breaks from your desk to go outside and sit on the grass and just be. Do nothing. Just connect with the earth and yourself.
Collect some flowers from your garden, or even some weeds or wildflowers whilst out on your walk, to put inside in a vase.
Meditate or do yoga outside on the grass without your mat. There is something rejuvenating and energising about practicing barefoot.
Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee break outside. Enjoy the stillness. Savour every sip and soak up the fresh air
Walk barefoot on the grass or along the beach. Focus on the feeling of your feet connecting with the earth and the sense of feeling grounded that can come along with this.
Make an effort to park a distance away from buildings or shops, and enjoy the walk in to your destination. Actively examine and notice the trees, the clouds, the birds, the weeds, the air, and anything else that you cross along the way.
Instead of reading a book on the couch or in bed, go and lie on the grass and soak up some Vitamin D while you read.
Buy some indoor plants or flowers to add greenery to your house or work area.
Search for new places and walks that you can explore.
Take time out to Moonbake from time to time. This is something that my bestie and I used to do when we were younger – go find a grassy spot to lie down and gaze at the stars and moon occasionally. There is something magical about doing this.
When you’re out in nature, really focus on your senses – what can you smell, what can you hear, what can you feel?
If you’re not into camping, maybe give it a try! Look for places that are a road trip away from you. Switch off from technology and escape to enjoy the great outdoors for a while.
Make an effort to take a dip and immerse yourself in water occasionally. Even if you’re not a fan of swimming, dip your toes in the water at the beach, float in the local river or lake for a while, or be silly and jump in the puddles and stand in the rain next time it’s sprinkling!
Nature has amazing health benefits Spending micro-breaks outdoors can rejuvenate the brain. Kids who spend more time in green spaces have elevated cognitive functioning on tests and also enjoy lower stress levels.
Wake up with nature.
Upon waking, open your window and stand in front of it. Look outside and take in all the beauty of nature. Breathe in the colors, shapes, textures and sounds. Notice the color of the sky, the shapes of the clouds and the sounds of the birds. Allow the natural world to ground you into the here and now.
Make a Commitment
Like all relationships, getting to know a place takes time. The best way to do this is to regularly visit our place, VINTAGE VILLAGE FARMS, whether it’s every day, or once in week or once a month or whatever works for you. Even after several visits, you’ll be amazed at how many “new” things you observe each time.
“…stop imagining the earth as a good mother passive, nurturing and supportive and recognize the idea of earth to be a complex phenomenon requiring efforts of thought and imagination”
We are putting our efforts to keep people connect with mother nature.