Nature Journaling: 5 Common Questions Answered
What is nature journaling?
Nature journaling is the intentional act of being curious about and observant of nature, and choosing to document that experience. There is no wrong way to practice! Some people choose to jot down observations, discoveries, and/or how they feel. Others may choose to sketch, take photos, or make audio recordings. You might also choose to intuitively absorb your experience and document it later. Most importantly, it’s a practice – not meant to be perfect – and a way of reflecting on your own experience.
Is there an ideal place to practice?
You can practice anywhere! Some of my most-loved spots are tucked within the beautiful Lake County Forest Preserves and within ancestral homelands of the Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatomi nations and other Native peoples.
Where possible, consider choosing an oasis, trail, or sit-spot you enjoy that is accessible enough to visit again. Revisiting over time often brings fresh observations, and that can remind us we’re not alone in the constant change and seasons we experience in our own lives.
Is there an ideal amount of time to spend on nature journaling?
If possible, aim for a practice of 20-30 minutes or longer. Research suggests just 20 minutes outside is enough to lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels in the body (Harvard Health Publishing, July 2019; Forbes, October 2019; Yuen & Jenkins, 2019).
Only have a few minutes to spend with an indoor plant, observe nature from a window, or notice things on a short walk to the bus stop? That’s OK too! It can still provide a meaningful encounter with nature. Experiencing any amount of awe in nature is good for our brains (Outside, July 2023).
How do I get started?
Allow yourself to slow down. Return to your breath. Open your heart and mind. Invite your senses to awaken. And let yourself drift where you’re naturally drawn. What calls out to you? The birdsong? The breeze? The water? The forest? A colorful leaf? One of my favorite parts of Nature Mindfulness groups or guided walks is witnessing individuals finding or deepening their unique calling – from birds or insects to lichen or fungi, to trees, water, and so many other natural wonders.
When thoughts and distractions arise, as they commonly do, we can nonjudgmentally acknowledge them and watch them pass like clouds in the sky, just as we might do during any mindfulness or meditation practice.
It might also help to use one or more of these prompts to get started: I notice, I wonder, This reminds me of…
Here are some free, downloadable templates (available in both English and Spanish), courtesy of Oregon State University.
Why is it recommended?
Nature journaling is one of many ways to connect with the natural world. And according to The Nature Fix by Florence Williams, the power of that connection has the capacity to improve our health, promote inner-reflection and innovation, and ultimately strengthen our relationships.
In addition to reconnecting us with our most authentic selves, lowering our stress, and improving our wellbeing, returning to our roots by intentionally connecting with nature (and our “ecological selves”) can open the door to a reciprocal relationship with Mother Nature wherein she is always there for us and we, in turn, can seek out ways to show gratitude and loving-kindness to care for her.
