We all want it. That deep assurance that "today I truly connected with my child". That knowing smile between mother and child; the shared experience carved deep in our hearts and minds. It can be so elusive in our distraction-filled world. But I have found a secret to making those moments happen more often - even daily. The secret is so simple, requires no money and actually very little time. The secret is simply exploring nature together.
Nature is Our Ally
As mothers in the 21st century, we have so many things pulling at us! Finding time for "the simpler things" can seem like anything but simple. I get that adding one more thing to the to-do with kids list can feel like a burden.
But, what if I could promise you that spending just 30 minutes once a week in your own backyard or neighborhood could give you more of what you are longing for? More in the areas of happiness, peace, and rest? What if that promise included better mental and physical health for both you and your child?
I have found that the natural world isn't just another thing to check off the to-do list. Nature is a powerful ally in making every member of my family (including myself) feel happier and closer to one another.
Here is what you have to gain:
Nature and Emotional Connection
Fact: Our homes are filled with distractions. Computers, phones, iPads, Netflix, meals to prepare, chores to be done, etc., etc. Connecting with our kids has to be intentional or it just doesn't happen.
I've found that just taking a few steps with my kids into the backyard, nearby park, or neighborhood eliminates those distractions making it so much easier (even instinctive) for me to be there emotionally.
Of course, these moments can happen inside, but there is just something about breathing in the fresh air and feeling a soft breeze on your face that creates peace and a bond that is hard to emulate indoors. Clarity of mind comes and a refocus happens when we leave all of the inside distractions behind and allow ourselves to soak in the natural world around us.
Nature and Confidence
The way kids interact with nature is pretty awesome to watch. Because there are no real rules, kids soon find a confidence that normal, inside parameters just don't allow. Nature provides loose parts - providing infinite ways to play and use their own ingenuity to create and build. Playing outside increases both physical and mental confidence something all kids need to thrive.
From a mother's perspective, as I've opened my own eyes to nature, I have been reminded of who and Whose I am. I can always look forward to the feeling of peaceful confidence falling upon me as I re-discover the bounty of beauty that God has given to me and those I love. I'm reminded that every plant and every creature is unique and offers something different to this world - that translates to respecting and nurturing my children's unique gifts and well as my own.
Nature and Creativity
For me, nature and creativity go hand in hand. When I'm feeling stuck or frustrated in a project, just a few minutes of fresh air and nature walking brings a new perspective and lots of inspiration.
Making the time to unplug from all of the distractions at home, helps my brain rest.
In 2012, a ground-breaking study found that after only four days of immersion in nature, a group of hikers tested a 50% improvement in their cognitive functions related to creativity and problem-solving.
The theory is that the more we bury ourselves in technology, ignoring the natural world around us, the more damage we are doing to our brains. According to the study, exposure to natural stimuli creates a so-called ‘soft-fascination’ effect. This enables the mind to more easily access an introspective, thoughtful state, and allow imagination to do its magic. The parts of our brain that are active during this ‘restful introspection’ are those that are needed for efficient performance on tasks requiring insight, problem-solving, and creative reasoning.
Nature and Happiness
There are so many studies proving a real connection between nature and happiness. This one, in particular, caught my eye: The mental health organization, MIND, published a study that found depression was reduced in 71% of participants after taking a walk in nature. When compared to walking around a shopping center where 22% of participants were more depressed than before the walk. 94% of the participants said that nature walks benefited their mental health.
Anecdotally, I have found over and over again that in our family, when annoyance levels are high and patience is low, a quick walk outside or impromptu nature study changes everything - for both parents and children.
Martha Farrell Erickson, developmental psychologist and founding director of Minnesota's Children, Youth and Family Consortium confirms, "By following a prescription for more nature experience together, families will discover a win/win situation in which both children and adults benefit as individuals, even as they are strengthening those important family bonds that all children (and adults) need."
How To Make Nature Time Happen
I've always been an "inside person", happy to sit and read or draw in a quiet, climate-controlled house. So making time for nature had to be a conscious choice for me. Just like most things in motherhood, my kids help me to do what I would never normally do. Now, I love it!
Here are some things that have worked for us:
Sit Spot
Pick a spot in your yard where you can sit comfortably and enjoy nature. If you want, you can record what you see and how it changes through the seasons. The kids and I each have our own Sit Spot. I purchased some cheap carpet rugs that we sit on. The kids love that they each have their own little rug. It makes the activity feel special while keeping mud and dirt off. It also helps them stay in their spot and actually focus on the nature around them.
Go For a Walk
Easy and effective. I try to remember to look around and notice the natural world around us and model curiosity. Now that the kids are a bit older, I oftentimes just take one kid with me at a time. I love to see them shine with all of that one-on-one attention.
Get a Macro lens for Your Phone
This is a fun one. I bought mine from Amazon. Just connect it to your phone and experience nature up close. It is such a fun activity to do with the kids and really makes us appreciate all of the amazing patterns and details nature has to offer!
Start a Nature Journal
The artist in me longs for time to draw and paint but it's hard to fit it in. I've found that Nature is the best muse so I schedule a time once a week to "Nature Journal".
Join Nature's Art Club!
If you'd like to include more nature and art into your family's life, I'd like to invite you to join us at Nature's Art Club! It's a club designed to get you and your family into art and nature through monthly watercolor projects, coloring pages, original poetry, and more. You can check it out here.
Watching a honey bee with our micro-lens on my iPhone
A Few Things To Remember
The website Childrenandnature.org gives some more great tips for success:
It's about being there, not getting there
You may be itching to get your daily steps in by taking a nice long walk, but your child may decide he's happiest finding a place to settle down and play by the closest tree. Follow his lead to prolong the joy.
Nature is everywhere
You don't have to venture into a wilderness preserve to observe nature. You can reap the benefits of time outdoors by sketching the tree across the street, hanging a bird feeder outside of your window or even planting a mini-garden on your apartment step.
Be prepared
Ranulph Fiennes said, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing." Make sure to dress appropriately! I've also found that a little snack and a water bottle is always a good idea - even if we are only out for a half-hour.
Embrace the elements
Who says you can't have a great time outdoors on a rainy or cold day? Dress right, have a silly adventure, you'll be calmer and more content when you come back indoors - guaranteed.
Model curiosity
If you see plants or animals or holes or nests that you can't identify - don't worry and don't pretend you have all of the answers. Express your curiosity and follow your kids' innate wonder. Let them be the experts - you can always look things up together when you get home.
Create Stories
At the end of the day, invite your kids to talk about their favorite part of your time outdoors. Revisit places you've been and retell stories of what you did. When you do, you'll be developing your family lore and supporting the wonderful connections you've built together outdoors in nature.
Conclusion
Nature is our ally - just waiting for us to take advantage of all it has to offer. Let it help you connect, feel more inner confidence, find more creativity and deeper joy. It's one of those awesome things in life that only requires a small investment but, pays in huge dividends.
