Listening in to nature

Connecting with nature doesn't just have to be visual.

On yesterday's walk I focused my attention on the sounds around me.

The Malvern springs are flowing, so the gurgling of the streams accompanied my stroll.

Then there was the birdsong, the sounds of leaves brushing against each other in the breeze, the distant calls of sheep and their lambs.

I even tuned into the sounds of my boots on gravel paths, or splashing across wet ground.

This gently focused attention plays an important role in bringing down stress levels.

Because our mind is 'tuned' into something, any intrusive, worried thoughts have to fade into the background. They have to make way for the thoughts about what is right in front of us.

Tie into that benefits of natural daylight, the signals our brain gets that all is well because nature is doing her thing, and possibly some physical movement for our bodies, and it's easy to see why connecting with nature can help our mental health.

What could you focus on in nature today, even if just for five minutes?