‘You Should Sit in Nature for 20 Minutes a Day…
Unless You’re Busy — Then you should sit for an hour.’
A Zen reminder that the more rushed we feel, the more we need to slow down.
Nature Feeds the Soul
How Kayaking Became Our Mini Escape
We started kayaking a few years ago. I don’t know about you, but being out on the water, even for a few hours is like a mini vacation. I feel refreshed, my whole being feels cleansed.
I think that’s what nature has the power to do. Cleanse our souls. It can make you go from stressed to relaxed in a few moments.
The Magic of Small Outdoor Moments
I can sit and have morning coffee on the deck. Or go outside on my lunch at work, now granted it’s not the forest, it’s a parking lot, but I’m out in the fresh air. In fact the other day, I was sitting in my car, early in the morning, and four deer were walking through the parking lot. They seemed to be very interested in the bulbs that are beginning to send up the first growth of spring. It was amazing to see them so unexpectedly.
Gardens, Growth & Getting Dirty | The Unexpected Mindfulness of Planting (and Sometimes Forgetting to Weed)
We also have a garden in the summer. I have to admit, I’m usually pretty gung-ho in the spring. Planting all kinds of vegetables. But when it comes to weeding, yeah, not so excited about that. Mid-summer, when it’s really hot out when I get home from work, it’s not the thing I want to do. Oh, but when it’s time to harvest, it’s exciting to see everything that you have nurtured. Being outside, with your hands in the dirt, connects you to something.
The Science of Why Nature Heals
Real Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors
- Reducing stress
- Improved mood
- Enhanced creativity and focus
- Increased empathy and social connection
- Improved sleep quality (if you have kids, you know how good they sleep after a good day outside!)
- boosting your immune system
- Increased vitamin D production
Spend some time outside, see how you feel afterwards. If you’re feeling tired, stressed out or crabby, see if some time outside helps turn it around.
Ways to Connect With Nature Today
Grab an umbrella and take a walk in the rain. Jump in a puddle or two.
Or I know someone who can’t sit and meditate. She does walking meditation. That sounds amazing.
Go for a walk in the morning or after dinner.
Grab a book and sit outside and read.
Watch the sky, the trees, or the birds
Be Gentle With Yourself | Let Nature Help You Feel Better
Don’t overthink it. Just step outside. Breathe. Listen. Let it shift something inside you.
Remember, be kind to yourself
Say Hello, Share a Thought
Whether you’d like to share a thought, ask a question, or just say hello, I’d love to hear from you. This space is built on kindness, curiosity, and connection. You’re always welcome here.