We all know of the benefits of time in nature, it calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, while increasing a sense of calm and relaxation, building self esteem and confidence. Not to mention the vitamin D and increased physical movement.

But how practical or easy is it to actually incorporate this time into our already busy schedule, when we might not have time for a good walk?

Here are five simple ways to get your nature fix every day.

1) If you’re working day is packed, give yourself ten minutes during a break to get outside, leave your phone behind, and just look up at the sky. Sometimes we can get a bit laser focused, so consciously widen your view. Tune into all of your senses, what can you see, smell, hear, feel? It might be the breeze on your skin. The sound of the traffic, birds, people around you. Watch the clouds, what shapes are they making?  Notice the colour of the sky. Just give yourself time to watch, a little space to take a breath. 

2) Put up a bird feeder, or plant something that attracts bees and butterflies, outside of a window you have regular access to. Give yourself time to watch the birds or insects doing their thing each day, even just for a few moments. It helps us to remember that we are part of something bigger. If you don’t have a garden, you can get bird feeders that stick on the outside of a window, or a window box you can plant up. Think about the scent you can get from plants too.

3) Work in a town or city? There is nature there to be found you just have to know where to look. Most have green spaces, take your lunch there. If time is limited find a bench nearby, plants find a way, look at the cracks in the pavement, marvel at its resilience. A tree that might line the road. Just be curious about the people passing you by. Observe, notice. Just being outside for a few moments can lift your mood. Or get off a stop early and walk a little more.

4) Take off your shoes and feel the grass under your feet. Simple, grounding, connecting. How does it feel? Focus on the sensations. Think about the life and growth that happens beneath our feet, out of sight. The world of ants, worms, moles, rabbits. The entire underground root system. An entire life system, hidden unseen.

5) Notice the cycle of the moon, track its position in the sky every night. What is the difference in how bright the sky is with a full moon versus a new moon? Can you see the man in the moon watching down on you? Remember, we are all made of stardust. This can help bring some perspective.

And as a bonus extra tip, why not commit to watching the sun rise or set once a week.

My hope is that at least one of those will be manageable to incorporate into your day. Pick one that resonates with you to start with and make a commitment to yourself to do it daily. Just notice your mood, how you are feeling before and afterwards, with no judgement, just be kind to yourself.

Let me know how you get on and if it helps!

Kate x