8 Fun and Engaging Ways to Connect with Nature

In a world filled with technology and constant busyness, it's essential to take a moment and reconnect with the natural wonders that surround us.

Nature has a way of grounding us, offering solace, and reminding us of the beauty and simplicity that exists beyond our screens. Don't get us wrong, we know it's a little challenging to have profound moment in nature when you've been dealing with a stressy Susan in your lunch break and barely had five minutes to scoff some dried up sandwiches... BUT connecting with nature a little bit every day can be so good for our mental health (and probably make you less inclined to tell Susan where to go!).  

Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike through the wilderness, or simply sitting beneath a tree, connecting with nature can bring a sense of peace, wonder, and rejuvenation to our lives. In this listicle, we want to share eight fun and engaging ways to reconnect with nature, allowing you to embark on a journey of exploration, mindfulness, and appreciation for the world outside our urban landscapes. Before you know it, these will become a standard part of your routine, like brushing your teeth or searching for your misplaced car keys... 

So, let's step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and rediscover the magic that lies within the embrace of nature.

1. Take a Nature Walk:
Set aside dedicated time to immerse yourself in nature. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and engage your senses. Dial down the buzz of to do's, obligations and pressure you feel under... Feel the earth beneath your feet, listen to the sounds of birds chirping, and inhale the fresh air. Appreciate the beauty and tranquility of nature.

2. Start a Nature Journal:
Keep a journal to document your experiences in nature. Yes this sounds a bit mushy and wishy washy but the practice of taking note of your day like this can help us to unwind and see the positive moments in what would otherwise be dominated by stress (the dog being sick on your shoes before you leave the house or getting home from a big shop to realise you have absolutely NO sheets of toilet roll in the house... Write about your observations, sketch the plants and animals you encounter, and reflect on your thoughts and emotions. Your journal will become a cherished keepsake and a reminder of your connection with the natural world.

3. Engage in Nature Photography:
Grab your camera or smartphone and capture the beauty of nature through photography. Explore different angles, experiment with lighting, and focus on intricate details. We're not suggesting taking a photography course or trying to compose complicated shots (although if that's your bag go for it!). Your pictures can be anything that means something to you. The sun shining on the water, your hand brushing through grass. Taking sensory images like this can also be a useful stress-buster and take you back to that moment when life is being... well LIFE. Share your shots on social media to inspire others to connect with nature as well.

4. Have a Picnic in the Park:
Pack a delicious lunch or snacks and head to a nearby park or green space. Find a cozy spot under a tree or by a lake, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the serenity of nature while indulging in a delightful picnic. No need to roll out the tartan blanket and woven picnic basket for this one. Any sitting item will do along with a bag of scrummy food. Bonus points for feeding the ducks or squirrels!

5. Try Forest Bathing:
Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in a forest environment. Take leisurely walks in wooded areas, breathe in the forest air, and allow the calming atmosphere to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. We especially recommend recording some of the sounds on your phone to play back as a soothing mix for relaxing in the evening or reading a book. 

6. Volunteer for Litter Cleanup:
Make a positive impact on the environment by participating in volunteer cleanup activities. Join local organizations or community initiatives focused on cleaning up parks, beaches, or hiking trails.  Surfers Against Sewage have loads of beach cleans and litter pick-ups that you can get involved in right across the country - plus you will meet people who care about our outdoor spaces too and you might even make a friend or two. 

7. Start a Container Garden:
If you don't have access to a large outdoor space, start a container garden on your balcony or windowsill. Grow your favourite herbs, flowers, or small vegetables in pots or containers. Watching them grow is wildly satisfying and creating dinners using your own grown plants is practically orgasmic. We love to recycle and reuse so why not save your kitchen scraps and start growing veg from your supermarket waste? 

8. Go Camping or Stargazing:
Bonus points if you can plan a camping trip to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. Spend a night under the stars, roast marshmallows around the campfire, and share stories with friends or family. The peace and stillness of the great outdoors will deepen your connection with nature. If a trip is a bit of a stretch then why not go to your local dark spot and have a go at stargazing? Yes, you'll probably know Orion's Belt and that's it but there's something very peaceful about gazing into the night's sky that connects you with nature and puts everything into perspective...

Remember, connecting with nature is not only enjoyable but also beneficial for your mental and physical well-being. So, grab some ideas from this list, pack a bag and get out and enjoy some time in the natural world... you won't regret it!