If this a new journey for you and you have little experience with nature then this post
was crafted with you in mind! Last week, I promised to list 5 practical ways to get
started on your journey to discover your nature community and the only requirement is
to remember it’s a journey that’s meant to be enjoyed.
Let’s get started:
- Be Intentional – Like all things worth having it will require work and planning.
Determine when and where you will walk. Set your reminders/alarms and stick
to the plan – especially when you don’t feel like it. Pack your bag with water,
pencil, pad, and other necessities the day before you plan to venture out. - Unplug – This is the hardest part but also the biggest benefit! I won’t ask you to leave your phone at home
but it is necessary to put it on silent and disconnect from your pings from email, news alerts, or texts. - Plan to Stop – Exercise is a by-product of this journey and as you discover nature more that is an automatic
benefit. The REAL benefit is what nature offers you when you stop to engage. Feel free to run your hand
through the dirt, discover what a worm feels like, or imagine what the tree would tell you if it could speak.
You will have to take my word for it in the beginning but when nature speaks to you please don’t keep it a
secret. Email us – we would love to celebrate with you! - Relax and Observe – If you wondered why you were packing a pencil and pad then here is why you will
need it. This moment can be used to write your thoughts, draw what you see or capture any new creativity
that may come to you. Don’t rely on memory – capture the moment. Resist the urge to simply snap a
picture or record the voice memo – remember you are unplugged. - Listen – Some may take this opportunity to pray, meditate, listen to the sounds of nature or even speak to
the atmosphere. However, you define this moment and how you choose to use it is up to you just don’t run
from the silence. It can be awkward at first but it will pay dividends over time.
Easy enough, right? The hardest step is the first one. So, plan ahead and start small. All of these steps can still be
accomplished in a short 20-minute walk around your neighborhood. As you find your footing then adjust your plan
and discover something new. Enjoy