Outdoor Meditation; if your monkey mind is bouncing off the walls, try taking it outside

Do you have a regular meditation practice? When I want to meditate I will often try to do so in nature. I walk to a forest or green space and sense what is around me. I slow down in the space and I let my mind relax.

Meditation and yoga have created big shifts in me. That said, I continue to make my way to the forest and natural spaces as a form of self-love because, for me, natural spaces are conducive to relaxation. Nature connection and meditation offer similar benefit in easing anxiety, reducing stress and slowing your heart rate. 

It’s easy slow down, to drop-in and be present in a forest. I can focus on the present because all of my senses are engaged, I feel my being within context of the natural space teeming with life around me. All of a sudden, I am in a liminal space, open to wonder around me. Nature allows me to enter a meditative space with ease. And as my friend Éva said, “Forests, trees, and natural spaces are open and offer acceptance.”

So, if you are struggling with meditation, find a natural space, set the timer on your phone, slow down and sense. Make your nature connection! 

• How long should you spend in nature connection? One minute can be of benefit, at least 10 minutes is recommended. There are many factors to consider including your schedule and the weather. 
• Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing