Do you want to feel more connected to nature? Why not start a nature journal?
If you want to take a break from screens, be creative, and reset your soul, grab a notebook and some art supplies and head to your backyard or neighborhood park. We are headed into fall and the change of season is the perfect time to start a nature journal. You can start simply by noting the changes you’re seeing in nature.
What supplies do you need?
- Some kind of notebook – it doesn’t matter if it’s blank or lined.
- A pen or pencil
- Art supplies – colored pencils, markers, crayons, paint, whatever you have lying around.
How do you start?
First, head out to nature and plan to spend at least five minutes doing your journaling. Once you start getting the hang of it, increase your time to 10 minutes and 15 minutes. Eventually you may stay out there as long as you need but for now, start small.
Open your notebook to a blank page. If you have a brand new notebook and you’re worried of messing it up (you won’t but I get it), don’t start on the first page, skip ahead a couple and start there. Put the date and time at the top then note what the weather is like.
Next, start writing about what you see, hear, smell, and touch. You could also write about what you taste but I don’t suggest that. You can also note any observations or who you are with. If you see a flower, go ahead and sketch it. Maybe there’s an interesting cloud shape, sketch it out.
Take your time. Sit and observe for a minute or two before you start writing (or sketching). What is calling your attention? Maybe focus on that and start to write about it.
Struggling to find something that is drawing your attention? Use a prompt! Here is a list to give you some ideas https://craftingagreenworld.com/writing/nature-journal-prompts/
Did you come across a new to you tree? Make a note, write down all the details, and dig into the research when you get home!
Don’t be afraid to try different things. No one else will see your journal and you aren’t being graded on it. Have fun with it!