Modern life often pulls us away from the natural world, leaving us feeling disconnected and unbalanced. I have found that it makes reconnecting with nature regularly all the more important since it can rejuvenate your mind, invigorate your body, and nourish your soul. Here are my top 10 things to do in nature that you can try out for yourself and see which best help you find that all-important mind, body, soul balance while embracing the outdoors.
Hiking
Explore local trails to strengthen your body and clear your mind. Hiking challenges your muscles, enhances cardiovascular health, and gives you a sense of accomplishment. It’s also an opportunity to practice mindfulness by focusing on each step and the scenery around you. You can stop whenever you want and simply take in the beauty of the natural world that surrounds you. This makes it my all-time favourite thing to do outdoors.
Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)
Second on my list, and originating in Japan, forest bathing involves immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Walk slowly and mindfully, paying attention to the rustling leaves, bird calls, and earthy aromas. Research suggests this practice reduces stress and lowers blood pressure. I like to do this several times a week and make sure to keep it separate from any hiking activity.
Wild Swimming
I have only ever tried this three times because I feel like I die a little each time. Personally, Id much rather paddle: but I have so many clients who do this regularly come summer and winter alike that I had to include it high up on the list here. Wild swimmng ais about taking a dip in a natural body of water, such as a lake, river, or ocean. The cool water boosts circulation, improves mental clarity, and promotes a feeling of well-being. Swimming in natural settings also fosters a deep connection to the earth's raw beauty.
Stargazing
On a clear night, lie on the grass or a blanket and gaze at the stars. This meditative activity encourages you to reflect on the vastness of the universe, which can reduce feelings of stress and insignificance. It’s a soulful reminder of your place in the cosmos. If you live in the countryside, this is relatively easy to see and do. City dwellers, however, may have to travel to a nearby hill or quiet place far from the glare of any city lights.
Gardening
Tending to a garden, whether it's flowers, herbs, or vegetables, is a therapeutic way to connect with the earth. Gardening improves mood, provides light physical activity, and results in tangible rewards like fresh produce or beautiful blooms. Even if it's a simply case of 30 minutes of garden clearance, I always feel refreshed, invigorated and really pleased with myself afterwards.
Meditation in Nature
Find a quiet spot outdoors to meditate. Whether seated on a rock, under a tree, or by a river, the sounds of nature enhance your ability to focus and relax. Guided nature meditations or simply observing the natural rhythm around you can deepen your practice. If you think it might help you, try listening to a guided meditation on an app such as Insight Timer which is downloadable for free.
Nature Photography
Grab your camera or smartphone and capture the beauty of the natural world. Focusing on framing the perfect shot increases mindfulness and encourages you to notice details you might otherwise overlook, like the patterns on a leaf or the way light filters through the trees. This is one of the techniques I inadvertently took up after a few years of hiking. Wherever I walked I began to realise how beautiful the natural world really was and I felt compelled to capture some of the plants and insect life on camera. This technique requires time and patience and was my foothold into meditation.
Yoga Outdoors
Practicing yoga in the open air merges physical movement with a connection to nature. Feel the ground beneath your feet, listen to the sounds around you, and breathe in fresh air. Outdoor yoga fosters a deeper sense of grounding and presence. In summer, the gentle breeze playing with your hair and brushing across your arms and legs is another great way to feel present and connected to the world around you.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching is a tranquil activity that promotes patience and awareness. Bring a pair of binoculars and a bird guide, or simply sit quietly and observe. Listening to birdsong and observing their behaviors can be calming and inspire wonder. If you want to try another phone app, then I strongly advise using Merlin created by Cornell Lab. It's a very user-friendly app that helps you identify bird song: it also gives you a visual of the bird so that you might begin to make the visual and auditory connections. I love this app and can easily lose a few rapturous hours listening, recording, identifying the birds in my immediate environment wherever I may be in the wild.
Picnic with a Purpose
Plan a picnic that encourages mindfulness and relaxation. Choose a scenic spot, pack wholesome food, and leave digital distractions behind. Focus on savoring your meal, enjoying the company of loved ones, or simply soaking in the view. You might want to take along some bird seed with you or peanuts if you want to draw an interested crowd from among the local birdlife.
Final Thoughts On 10 Things to Do in Nature
Nature offers countless ways to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or inspiration, the natural world has something for everyone. Regularly immersing yourself in outdoor activities helps you stay grounded, energized, and at peace. So, take a step outside and - whatever you decide to do - let nature work its magic!