Theory

Why practice mindfulness in nature? Or why practice mindfulness at all?

Mindfulness is the act of paying attention to our own experience. It can be likened using attention like a spotlight, illuminating all that can be perceived by the senses, as well as thoughts and feelings arising. The techniques, when learned and practiced, can move one away from feeling less and less stress and more creativity, resilience, and moments of joy and equanimity.

These practices can be done anywhere. It's in natural settings, though, where the effects can mount more quickly. Twenty minutes of mindfulness practice in a park can be more impactful than twenty minutes indoors, where distractions and artificial sensory information can dull the experience.

I draw my guidance and inspiration from sources that study mindfulness and attention in the outdoor settings. And since I am a biologist and birder, I heavily lean on birds in my own practice and immersions with others.

You can read more about these resources, compiled by The Mindful Birding Network:

 Scientific Studies — The Mindful Birding Network