Nature Walking

Nature Walking - A Guide

“Walking . . . is how the body measures itself against the earth.”
― Rebecca Solnit, Wanderlust: A History of Walking

As another winter of restrictions surfaces (here in the UK), there is an insular feeling that arises. Whilst asked to stay inside our four-walled dwelling, which I hope is comfortable and safe for each of you, it can be easy to lose connection with the natural world outside - especially as these winter months darken and the rain caresses windows in the early morning. 

The natural world, which we are a part of not separate from, is a space we can always enter to find solace, peace and life - even in the darkest of times. It is well known that thirty minutes in a ‘green area’ can lighten moods, this is true even for the smallest city park, garden or walk down a body of water; the ocean, a canal, or a stream. 

We are always walking in nature but are we making space for nature to walk within us? Perhaps you have heard of mindful walking or read quotes from Thích Nhất Hạnh or Olivia Lang on the soothing qualities of walking.

Connecting with your environment can be a great opportunity for grounding and restoration, the cyclical rhythms as a reminder that nothing is permanent and that we are all interwoven. 

1. Bird Songs
   This is a very simple practice but works each time even in urban spaces. Attune your ears to listen for the songs of birds. Their calls can help to reduce stress and give your mind something to focus on. If you can, try to notice the different songs.
   

2. Technology Off
   Turn your phone onto airplane mode or silent so you’re not distracted by notifications or the temptation to scroll. It is tempting to use a map but see if you can follow your paths and sense of direction, allow yourself to get a little lost if you have the time. Headphones are also best left in your bag. 
   

3. An Upward Gaze
   Look up. It is instinctual to want to watch our steps yet there is a whole world above our heads - often unnoticed. Look for cloud patterns, changing colours of the leaves and cycles of flowers, notice nests of creatures and the different textures in the trees, watch their branches as they move in the weather. 
   

4. Slowing Time
   Allow yourself to take time. Slow down your pace and try to walk at half your normal pace. Stop when something calls your attention, let yourself pause in different places to notice the smell, light and sounds. Ask yourself, do the changing environments shift your emotions?
   

5. Communing with Plants
   Our plant kin are always growing, even in the most unexpected of places. Make notes (paper or mental) of them on your walking routes. Begin to learn the names of different trees, bushes and flora, don’t be afraid to touch tree bark, dewy grass or pick up fallen leaves. Sit with them, take some deep breaths and enjoy their energy - perhaps over time learning their different qualities. Over time you’ll build relationships with them. You can also note when their fruits and leaves are in season for *foraging.

6. Breath Pathway
A breath of fresh air is a remedy for many ailments. When outside take deep breaths, it can help to hold your hands to your body to notice the rise and fall of your belly and chest. This simple deep breathing exercise is best done underneath a tree; you can visualise sending your breath through the earth into the tree and back into your body through the tree crown. If you feel comfortable, close your eyes.

7. The Unknown Path
It can be wonderful to walk a familiar route, especially as the hours darken and if you live in a city with limited access to wild spaces or have limited mobility. Try to explore different routes or take the same route differently. Dusk and dawn are beautiful times of day to explore, note the subtleties of each. You could also plan out a journey around areas that interest you - water springs, ancient trees, rivers, gardens and stone circles.

*Please seek trusted foraging books and guides before eating anything from the wilderness. We recommend cross-checking sources to ensure you don’t eat anything that could be harmful to your health, learn the poisonous plants first. If you are foraging it is also important to follow guidelines about sustainable foraging, take only what you can use (never more) and leave a healthy amount for the plant itself and the wild creatures you live around, especially in the winter and spring months. We recommend giving your thanks to the plants.