By Alie Mayes
When you think of awe-inspiring nature, what do you think of? Mountains, the beach or some other far away scene? Or do you think of that feeling of joy you had as a child when you were chasing frogs, making mud pies or exploring the “wilderness” of an overgrown lot or local creek?
I think being in awe of the world around you is directly linked to accessing joy. But how do you cultivate that childlike wonder when you are an adult with bills to pay and a literally never-ending to-do list? Here are six ideas on how to slow down and reconnect with your awe of nature.
Make Practice of Prairie Bathing
You may have heard of the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku or forest bathing. This beneficial practice ties together mindfulness and time outdoors to benefit mental and physical wellness.
But how do you get the benefits of forest bathing when you live in the Great Plains? You try prairie bathing instead! When was the last time you played in the grass and watched a cloud float by? Or let yourself be serenaded by bird song?
Prairie bathing is an easy way to connect with nature and yourself. It is a great excuse to unplug for a while, turning off your electronics to practice being fully present in the moment.
Get a Team Together for Nature Nerd Night Trivia
Did you know the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission hosts Nature Nerd Night trivia events around the state? Gather your nerdiest friends, grab a drink and test your knowledge — and maybe learn something new — at this fun adult event.
Make Bad Nature Art
There are many ways to get creative with nature. Eco-dying, botanical printing, nature journaling, doodling clouds … the list goes on and on. And the best part is, you don’t have to be good at something to enjoy it. Try something new — make a mess — get creative.
Try Outdoor Cooking
Hanging out outside and trying tasty treats? Yes, please! Outdoor cooking can be so much more than grilling a burger. Elevate your next camping trip — or backyard entertaining — with Dutch oven cooking. Not sure how to get started? Don’t worry, there’s a class for that!
Contribute to Wildlife Research
Documenting the natural world is a great way to get in tuned with nature and contribute to wildlife research. Community science is the practice of people-powered science. It can be as simple as using the free app iNaturalist to document wildlife or, getting involved with a specific project to track specific wildlife, such as butterflies, bats, spotted skunks or bumble bees. Learn more about community science at OutdoorNebraska.org.
Become a Nebraska Master Naturalist
Did you know there is a whole organization in Nebraska focused on creating a community of naturalist volunteers? The Nebraska Master Naturalists offer an in-depth training program for anyone interested in learning more about Nebraska wildlife and conservation. After they have completed the training, participants are encouraged to get involved with stewardship, research and education programs across the state. Added bonus: The week-long summer trainings are like adult summer camp, including sleeping in cabins, playing in the water and making new friends.
There are many more ways to connect or reconnect with the awe of the natural world. No matter how you choose to connect and be inspired by nature, the important thing is that you take the time to do so!