52 Ways to be Mindful: Nature Journaling
Journaling in the natural world encourages us to slow down, become present, and observe our external surroundings and internal landscapes.
If we’re friends on Instagram, you’ll know I recently got very excited about reaching a 133-day streak of journaling to help my anxiety! A journaling practice has brought so many benefits for me, not least that of daily gratitude which is allowing me to appreciate the good in each hour, day and week.
This week, I wanted to explore journaling in nature, which is a practice I've been experimenting with lately. It’s just one of the ways to deepen our connection with nature and foster a mindful existence.
I use the journaling app Day One, which allows me to upload daily nature photos and videos and write about how I felt out in nature that day. Nature has always been a sanctuary for our minds and souls, a place where we can find peace and clarity amidst the noise and distractions of everyday life.
So let’s explore nature journaling and the ways it can bring tranquillity to our lives.
Why Journal in Nature?
Journaling on its own is a therapeutic exercise, allowing us to express our emotions, process experiences, and gain insights into our personal narratives.
Combining this with the beauty and serenity of nature amplifies the benefits.
The natural world encourages us to slow down, become present, and observe our external surroundings and internal landscapes.
Getting Started with Mindful Journaling in Nature
1. Choose Your Spot: Find a place in nature where you feel comfortable, whether it's a secluded spot in a park, a quiet beach, or even your own garden. Make sure you're free from major distractions and can comfortably sit or lie down.
2. Equip Yourself: A simple notebook and pen are all you need. Some prefer leather-bound journals; others spiral notebooks. Find what feels right for you.
3. Start with a Mindfulness Practice: Before diving into writing, take a few minutes to ground yourself. Take deep breaths, feeling the air fill your lungs and then slowly exhale. Listen to the sounds around you – the chirping of birds, rustling leaves, or gentle waves.
4. Free-write: Don’t overthink it. Let your thoughts flow onto the paper. Write about the environment around you, how you feel in the moment, or anything that comes to mind. Remember, there's no wrong way to do this.
Guided Journaling Prompts
If you're not sure where to start or want some inspiration, here are some prompts to guide your journaling:
Describe the sensory experiences around you. What do you see, hear, smell, and feel?
Reflect on how being in nature makes you feel and why.
What memories or feelings does this specific environment evoke?
Think about a lesson nature is teaching you today.
Embrace the Silence
Sometimes, it's okay not to write. It's perfectly fine to sit, breathe, and be. Holding your journal can symbolise openness, even if the pages remain blank that day.
Close with Gratitude
End your journaling session by expressing gratitude. It can be gratitude for nature, the opportunity to write, insights gained, or simply for the present moment.
Revisit and Reflect
Every few weeks, glance through your entries. Reflect on your growth, recurring themes, or any patterns that emerge. It’s a wonderful way to see how your connection with nature and understanding of yourself deepens over time.
Journaling mindfully in nature is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, the calm moments, and the noisy ones. Let the rhythm of nature guide your thoughts, and you'll find an oasis of peace in both the external landscapes and within yourself.
In peace and mindfulness,
Ellie x