The 15 Best Ways to Connect With Nature

Connecting with nature is a simple way to improve your overall health and well-being. In fact, among 952 studies examining the , mental health outcomes improved across 98%, physical health outcomes improved across 83%, and cognitive health outcomes improved across 75% of studies.

Connecting with nature can be as easy as stepping outside and smelling the fresh air. Yet, somehow, many of us are “too busy” to pause for a deep breath or admire the beautiful natural scenery around us. Sometimes, all it takes is a reminder of how beneficial nature can be if we take the time to truly appreciate it. Read on to learn about 15 ways to connect with nature.

1. Be Present When Outdoors

Most of us go outside every day, whether it’s for a short walk to the car or a long hike in the mountains. Regardless of why you’re outside (or for how long), take advantage of any fresh air you can get. Truly be present when you step outdoors, and get in tune with your senses. Smell the flowers or the rain. Feel the wind as it brushes against your skin. Admire the vibrant colors of the changing leaves. Listen to the birds singing and bugs chirping. Grounding yourself in the present moment while outside can elevate your experience.

2. Practice Earthing Techniques

Earthing, also called grounding, is a form of connecting with the Earth typically through direct contact. This can look like standing barefoot in the dirt or grass, lying on the ground, or submerging yourself in the ocean or other bodies of natural water.

Multi-disciplinary research has revealed that electrically conductive contact of the human body with the surface of the Earth (grounding or earthing) produces intriguing effects on physiology and health. Such effects relate to inflammation, immune responses, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

3. Get Creative

Nature can spark inspiration and creativity because it often elicits a sense of awe. Have you ever looked out at the ocean or up at the sky and realized just how small you really are — how small we all are? Maybe it made you realize the insignificance of your anxieties or frustrations. It helped you disconnect from the busy monkey mind, allowing you to breathe, if just for a minute.

It’s in these moments, when you are able to still your mind, that you can more easily tap into your creative side. Without dwelling on your to-do list or thinking about how others will perceive you, let your mind wander and think creatively. As you do this, you can sit in the grass or with your feet in the water and paint a picture, write a poem, take a photograph, or hum a tune. Whatever you feel called to create, create it — and do it for yourself.

4. View Wildlife

If you’re an animal lover, is a great way to connect with nature. You can view and admire wildlife in a variety of ways. For instance, hike through different habitats or simply sit in your yard and watch animals or go about their lives. If you’re serious about wildlife viewing, consider using tools like binoculars for clearer views or field guides for easier identification. Additionally, you might consider waking up earlier or planning your viewing according to the seasons, finding the ideal time to watch the animals you adore most.

5. Plant a Garden

Gardening is a great way to connect with nature. Whether you want to plant a flower garden or fresh veggies in your yard, first research the types of plants you’d like to grow. Educate yourself on the proper climate, environment, and growing tips for the specific plants, then choose the right location in which they can flourish. For example, you might look for a spot in your yard or community garden that gets enough sunlight.

Once your garden begins growing, you’ll likely feel a sense of pride. Simply being outside among your plants, digging in the soil, smelling their sweet scents, or harvesting your vegetables, will help you feel more in touch with nature.

6. Go Birdwatching

Birdwatching is another great way to connect with nature and wildlife. Birds are remarkable creatures with fascinating patterns, from nesting to communicating with one another. To embark on your own birdwatching journey, research local birding destinations near you, such as recreational areas or parks. Be sure to bring binoculars and cameras to capture the beautiful birds!

Oftentimes, birdwatching doesn’t even require you to travel. In fact, if you purchase a bird feeder and place it outside your window, you can birdwatch from the warmth and comfort of your own home. Additionally, if you live by nature, take a peek outside your window. You’re bound to see a bird or two fluttering about!

7. Walk, Run, or Hike Through Nature

An obvious way to connect with nature is to take a walk, run, or hike through nature trails. Research the best trails in your area, and plan a day of adventuring for yourself or with loved ones. While following the path, be sure to “stop and smell the roses.” Pause for a moment to take in the beautiful scenery. If there are interpretive signs and displays along the trail, read and educate yourself about the area. Learn about different wildlife and plant species you might encounter.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Hug trees, pick up rocks, run your fingers through a creek, etc. Truly immerse yourself in the experience.

8. Gaze at the Stars

Stargazing is a wonderful way to connect with nature. If accessible, find a quiet spot in your town to lie on the ground and admire the beautiful night sky. Bring a romantic interest, a group of friends, or just yourself. You can use your unaided eye, binoculars, or telescopes to help improve your viewing experience. As you gaze at the many stars, bask in their magnificence and practice mindfulness, truly being present in the moment. Take deep breaths and know that you are part of the universe and all its glory.

9. Sit in the Full Moonlight

Similar to stargazing, sitting in the light of the can be an emotional and moving experience. Many people look at the moon in complete awe, especially when it’s full. The bright celestial entity controls our tides and changes phases throughout its . In fact, many people even celebrate the different phases of the moon, mainly the new moon and full moon. Additionally, various cultures have been honoring the moon and its potent energy for ages.

If you’re a fellow moon-lover, find a spot where you can access the moonligh. Let it blanket you with peace and cleanse your mind of any troubles.

10. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

Admiring the sunrise or sunset is yet another way to connect with nature and bask in its beauty. Depending on where you live, you might even catch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean, lake, or other body of water, adding to its magnificence and awe. Plan a picnic with a loved one or take yourself on a solo date to journal as the sun comes up or goes down.

11. Go for a Swim

Submerging yourself in water is a great way to connect with nature (and it’s also a great earthing tactic). Depending on where you live and any regulations in the area, you can swim in the ocean, a lake, or other body of water. In doing so, feel the water cool your body and let yourself float for a moment. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you are connected to this .

12. Plan a Camping Trip

When was the last time you went camping? There are countless campsites across the country, and many people will even camp along road trips, stopping at various destinations. Even if you don’t consider yourself an “outdoorsy” person, you can rent a cabin in the woods or truck camp on the beach. If you’d rather not spend the night camping, simply make it a day trip where you immerse yourself in the wilderness. Then, head home to camp out in your backyard instead, roasting marshmallows around a bonfire.

13. Educate Yourself About Nature

You can learn a lot about nature by exploring it yourself. However, there are also many different podcasts and books to help. Whether you want to educate yourself on wildlife in your area, begin studying plants and gardening, or simply learn more about the moon and other celestial objects, you’re bound to find extensive information on each topic. Follow what you’re most drawn to, and immerse yourself in the subject.

14. Decorate Your Home with Plants

Keeping plants around your home is a great way to connect with nature — without even needing to leave your home. Owning plants gives you something to care for and keep alive, which can elicit a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Additionally, it’s healthy to have plants within your living space, as they can reduce air pollutants and improve air quality.

15. Join an Environmental Organization

A great way to connect with nature is to get involved with a local environmental organization or nature conservation group. Volunteering with such groups will offer a fulfilling way to bond with others while spending time in nature.

Summary of the Best Ways to Connect With Nature