Nature Walk

“A walk in nature, walks the soul back home.”

– Mary Davis

The sights, smells, sounds & textures that are abundant in nature have marvelous effects on our entire being, physical, mental, emotional, energetic, & spiritual.

We are transported out of the world of demands and commitments into a space where the mind can be free of troubles and stress & spirits are lifted.

Find your place to walk, it could be the forest, the beach or botanical garden, anywhere that nature abounds.

Walking in nature has so many positive effects on our wellbeing. When we walk in nature, our blood pressure decreases which creates a sense of calmness. Stress hormones are lowered, and breathing becomes more relaxed. Nature walks improve our heart health and helps in preventing many illnesses Going for a walk is also good for your bones and your circulation,

It also has the capacity to affect and change our brains and cognition. it has been found that walking in nature can significantly help our short-term memory. Burnout and depression can cause loss of memory, when we walk in nature, it helps our brain to restore that function, it can also help boost our attention. Studies have demonstrated this effect and how it can even help children that struggle with ADHD*. Even a short walk of fifteen minutes can significantly help.

Nature walks release endorphins, which will help to reduce stress and improve mood. Sleeping patterns can also be improved by walking in nature Being outside in the fresh air can help to prevent and treat mild to moderate depression. Mindful walking in nature can also bring up feelings of awe and inspiration for what is around you.

The immune system benefits, the fresh air can help us build a stronger response against viruses, colds and the flu and help restore our cells, the rejuvenating effect in our body as we breathe in more oxygen.

Nature walks can help you foster mindfulness in your everyday life. It can help you become more grounded in the present moment instead of overthinking the past or what the future will bring. Try to focus on little things, such as noticing insects, a small mushroom, a bird bringing food to its nest, the temperature of the air, texture of tree bark, colours, the sound of your steps. Enjoy the experience, meander, wander, let your feet take you where they will

Five senses mindfulness exercise

This exercise is perfect for bringing you to mindfulness on your nature walks

1. Notice five things that you can see

2. Notice four things that you can hear

3. Notice three things that you can feel

4. Notice two things that you can smell

5. Notice one thing that you can taste

Nature engenders a sense of gratitude. When walking through nature, we begin to appreciate everything that is around us, we feel grateful to be where we are, to have the opportunity to be immersed in the wonders that surround us.

“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”

– John Muir

*Andrea Faber Taylor and Frances E. (Ming) Kuo University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA

*Anne R. Schutte University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Julia C. Torquati University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Heidi L. Beattie Troy University,