Nature Mindfulness
Be present in nature. Listen and notice what is around you. What do you hear? Animal movement? Leaves rustling? What do you see? Notice the variety of trees. What sensations do you feel on your skin? Sun? Wind? What do you smell? Relax and connect with yourself and the nature surrounding you.
Nature Meditation
Find a safe and comfortable spot out and simply exist with only your thoughts. As a thought comes to mind, watch it go by like a cloud in the sky or a leaf in a river. Focus on each breath as you breathe in the fresh air around you. Feel the ground below you as it holds you.
Sound Mapping
Set aside your phone. Pause and notice where the sounds around you are coming from. What direction is each sound coming from? If you find yourself distracted, shift your attention back to the sounds until you become fully present with them.
Wildlife Watching
Clarkson is home to many animals including squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. Notice the animals around you. Notice how they interact with the environment and how they move about. Can you name the animal and the species?
Snow Play
With snow on the ground, the opportunities are endless. With the proper gear, construct a snow sculpture such as a bunny, igloo, or anything else you can think of. Think creatively and allow yourself the freedom to try something new. It’s not about the product, but about the process. Have fun with it!
Nature Journaling
Take time to connect with your observations, thoughts, and/or feelings. On a device or paper, write through a stream of consciousness, draw, or write a poem, song, or story. Let things flow freely, without judgement or inhibition. Resist perfection and embrace the process.
Nature Walking
As you walk through the woods, take a little time to breathe deeper and walk slower. Engage all your senses to be present with the nature around you. Look up, down, and all around you. Notice the details such as shapes, sizes, and colors.
Bringing Your Daily Activities Outdoors
You can eat, sleep, or do homework indoors, but doing them while in nature has many mental health benefits such as promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Perhaps you’d like to bring a friend to join you.
Photographing Nature
Each season provides opportunities to capture the wonders of nature. In winter, icicles & snow on evergreens abound. In the fall, the trees change many different vibrant colors. The spring brings flowers and lilacs, and the summer brings out many animals. It’s likely you’ll see a family of deer on campus at some point.