Five different ways to connect with nature this summer

Connecting with nature is so important in our lives and as we arrive in the spring and summer months, the blossoming flowers and vibrant landscapes really can have a huge impact on our overall wellbeing. 

Getting out in nature has been proven to boost mental health, reduce stress and even help quell cravings as part of alcohol addiction recovery, and it’s often encouraged by therapists, counsellors and healthcare professionals.

There are many ways of connecting with nature, so if you’re looking to improve your routine and boost your wellbeing, here are five different ways you can do so that involves being out in the open.

Explore Local Walking Trails

One of the easiest ways to get out in nature is to explore your local walking trails. That could be a gentle stroll through the park, following a river or canal footpath, or even venturing into the hills or woodland. 

The beauty of the UK is that it’s full of beautiful countryside. If you’re completely new to walking, there are also plenty of apps out there that can help. The Footpath app, in fact, is a great way to plot trails for a walk and is perfect for beginners looking to find footpaths to enjoy near them.

Try Wild Swimming

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then try wild swimming. Swimming is so good for us and doing it in open water can be a great way to connect with the natural world. It’s important to check the safety of the spot first, and you’ll find plenty of wild swimming spots by doing your research online, but lakes, rivers and the sea are certainly options.

It’s been linked with a remarkable grounding effect, and has been proven to reduce anxiety, improve mood and ensure you get a better night’s sleep. 

If you’re a little nervous about getting started, joining a wild swimming group can be a good option, where you’ll find a welcoming community and plenty of tips and advice.

Grow Something!

You don’t need a garden to enjoy the benefits of growing plants. A window box, balcony planter or even a few pots on a doorstep can provide a wonderful connection to nature. Growing herbs, flowers or vegetables gives you a daily reason to step outside, and offers a tangible sense of achievement.

Tending to plants, watering, pruning, harvesting, also helps you slow down and engage with seasonal rhythms. If you have more space, planting bee-friendly flowers or creating a wildlife corner can support local biodiversity and bring birds, butterflies and insects right to your doorstep.

Go Wildlife Spotting

Summer is teeming with life, and taking time to observe wildlife can help you feel more present and connected. Whether it’s watching dragonflies dance over a pond, spotting bats at dusk, or listening for owls in the evening, tuning into wildlife can be both meditative and awe-inspiring.

You might try joining a local wildlife walk, downloading a birdwatching app, or simply sitting quietly in your garden or local park. Keep a nature journal to record your sightings, it’s a lovely way to track what you’ve noticed and to cultivate a deeper awareness of your local environment.

Take Your Daily Activities Outdoors

You don’t need to plan a big day out to feel closer to nature, simply moving your regular activities outside can make a difference. Have your morning cup of tea in the garden, take your lunch to a park bench, or do your stretching or reading under a tree.

These small moments of stillness in nature can be surprisingly restorative, particularly if you live a busy or stressful life. Try turning it into a habit: make a point of finding ten minutes each day to spend outdoors, even if it’s just to breathe and listen.

Image by Mircea Iancu from Pixabay