Mindfulness and Nature
Research shows that spending time in nature can have a number of positive global effects. This means that nature can actually play a role in improving our overall physical and mental health. People who regularly spend time in natural outdoor settings are more likely to feel life satisfaction, positive emotions, amusement & gratitude. This is correlated to the sensations of inspiration, peace and awe that we experience when we allow ourselves to practice mindfulness in nature. When brought on by nature, these positive sensations have also been shown to increase prosocial behaviours such as generosity, helpfulness and charitability.
How to be Mindful in Nature:
Instead of passively spending time outdoors, being mindful means that we are opening ourselves up to feeling one with nature. In order for us to do this, we must first understand that we are not superior to nature, but rather a part of it. Mindfulness in nature involves the practice of taking in all of the sensory signals that we experience in natural, outdoor settings.
The following suggestions can help to increase outdoor mindfulness:
Observe nature with your senses - what can I see, hear, smell, feel, taste?
Record your observations - take your journal outside & record all of the emotions and
sensations that you experience
Try a guided meditation while in an outdoor environment
Unplug! - It is common to listen to music or use our phones while outdoors.
Being mindful in nature means taking a break from electronics in order to truly experience the beauty of natural settings We often attach associations and expectations to our experiences. However, doing so can create barriers to mindfulness. In order to truly be mindful in nature, it is important that we allow ourselves to experience and savour each sensation without attaching judgement to the experience. Focusing on sensations rather than thoughts is one way to help with this. When we “catch” ourselves in moments of judgement or negative thought, we can ground ourselves back in the present moment by observing our natural surroundings with all of our senses.