Slow Down, Look Closer: The Power of Nature Journaling

Journaling is a captivating way to connect with Nature. It helps us be present, focus on details otherwise passed by, and be inspired and grateful.

Benefits of Nature Journaling:

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1. Improves mental health: Being in nature is a proven way to lower stress levels and improve mood. As humans, we're not meant to stay inside for as long as we do, and this activity gives us a chance to change.
2. Promotes self-reflection: All too often, I find that more important things fill my day, though when I reflect on the year, so many of my biggest goals and questions are left unanswered or unfulfilled. Through nature journaling, we can reflect on our daily experiences and gain insights into who we are, what we value, and where we want to go.
3. Enhances cognitive function: Exposure to natural environments has been shown to improve attention span, focus, and memory retention. By immersing ourselves in nature, we become more attuned to the present moment and gain insight into our surroundings and thus ourselves.
4. Enhances creativity: Creativity is a muscle. Journaling gives space to be creative. When we are immersed in nature, increased focus notices more details, colors, and textures that can be used to draw from.

Tips for Finding the Right Environment: There is no wrong location. I, being a midwesterner, often fall into the troupe that there's no good nature near me. Now, the midwest does have its environmental issues, but this idea that I need to find a perfect place or a forested eden is a misconception. Finding beauty in the ugly is a lesson most valuable. Now, I've added some tips in the hopes that if you follow these you will be more likely to continue.

1. Choose an outdoor location. The smells, fresh air, sounds, and views are more vibrant.
2. Be prepared.
3. Keep your journal private to start.
4. Pick somewhere close to home to form a habit.

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Inspiration from Artwork: My wife is an amazing artist. When we backpack, I go and photograph, and she usually draws. I have framed several of her drawings.

1. Sketching: Capture what captures your mind.
2. Watercolors: Watercolor painting is a great way to capture the beauty and intricate details of nature.
3. Monotypes: Monotype printing involves creating multiple copies of an image by stamping it onto paper repeatedly. You can create a monotype based on a landscape or botanical print.
4. Collage: Collage is an art form that combines different images and textures to create a unique visual story. Nature scenes, photographs, and words can be used in collage pieces. Bring some tape or glue and use your hands.

Nature journaling is good for you.