Those of you who read my blog regularly will know I often talk about the benefits of being in nature.
But, if you’re anything like me, I equally find it all too easy to sit down, log on… and suddenly two hours have passed.
Whether it’s work, finding something interesting to watch or read, or scrolling through social media – it’s amazing how quickly time can pass.
Then sometimes, even when we do take a break or go for a walk, how much do we actually bother to look around and take notice of what’s happening?
Being mindful.
There’s something about stopping and taking time out to be in nature.
I mean really stopping.
Finding somewhere to sit… and really look around at what’s happening.
Looking at plants, trees, clouds, birds, insects…
Noticing colours… shapes and movement.
Listening to the sounds around you.
Noticing the air on your skin, or the sun on your face.
Just being outside in a park, in your garden, or even sitting among pot plants on your patio – can be beneficial.
Last Friday I read a story about Catherine (Kate), Princess of Wales who had posted on Instagram about the benefits of being outside.
“I know the power of nature to support our development and wellbeing, both by bringing us joy and helping to keep us physically, mentally and spiritually healthy,” – Catherine, Princess of Wales.
As she continues her cancer treatment, I have no doubt she has access to some of the best doctors and treatments in the world.
But still she emphasises the importance of nature.
Her comment was in relation to the opening of new gardens at the Natural History Museum in London.
Five acres around the building have been transformed into two gardens, named the Nature Discovery Garden and the Evolution Garden.
On the Museum’s website it says:
Sink into your surroundings and soak in the sights and sounds of nature as you discover the creatures that have made their homes here. Take time to tune into the birds singing in the trees, to watch the ripples dance across our ponds and to contemplate a future that works for people and the planet.
That sounds like a perfect dose of mindfulness.
So if it’s good enough for a princess – it’s most definitely good enough for us!
Make some time to step away from that computer or device, step outside and breathe in some nature.
Ann🙏