As I’m sitting here writing this blog, I realize that I feel a little lighter! It could be because my window is open, I’m breathing in the fresh spring air, I’m hearing the birds singing, seeing the sun bouncing off my beautiful namaste frog, or maybe because I’m watching the birds playing in the birdbath. My garden fairies seem to be asking me to come play! Whatever it is, this is a new delicious feeling that I haven’t felt for a while! I’m going to soak it all in and bask in its glory! It’s been a long winter, and staring out my window makes me feel a sense of freedom. Might I even say, hopeful!
We’ve all been under a huge amount of stress! Both the young and the old have been dealing with fear of the unknown. Additionally, we’ve also been forced to adapt to our “new” way of life! At least now we can get outside. Nature is the best way to relieve stress and tension.
Being mindful in nature with your children is a great way to bond, connect, and release some of our worries. It also gives children an opportunity to express how they’ve been feeling.
We can focus on our five senses well walking in nature. Often, were so wrapped up in our own thoughts that we miss the beauty all around us. Listen intently to the birds singing, water tumbling over a stone, the sound of the wind. Pay close attention to the beads of dew on grass, the texture of bark on a tree, the shape and patterns of veins on leaves, Observe the squirrels or birds in the trees; animals are a great way to reconnect us with nature. Use your sense of touch. We can touch the grass, feel the soft silk of flower petals, run our palms over tree trunks.
The opportunities to teach mindfulness in nature are endless. Teach children and youth to use their senses during whatever moment they’re in! This will bring them to the present moment, which is where we all experience the least amount of stress!
I hope this provides a different way to experience your next walk!
Until next time….let nature take your stress away!