So you know what research says: Spending time in nature improves mental health and overall well-being. But, you prefer to be indoors. Well, here are some ways you can reconnect to the great outdoors and become a naturalist when it feels like going against your own nature!
This post is all about how you can become a nature-loving naturalist.
So, What’s a Naturalist?
Naturalists are people who love being outdoors. They enjoy exploring and learning new things about the natural world.
Famous naturalists like Charles Darwin and John Muir changed the world with their work. They each opened the minds of many with different perspectives of the natural world as they saw it.
Becoming more of a naturalist can help lower your stress levels and become a healthier person! Start practicing naturalist living today with the following tips.
6 Ways You Can Adopt the Naturalist Lifestyle
#1 Read Something Beautiful About Nature
There are a few writers, naturalists themselves, who created a love of nature in me. I recommend these three books for naturalists to anyone!
#2 Visit a Natural Science Museum
NCMS The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Rooftop Bridge in Downtown Raleigh, NC
Lucky for us, we are not far from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh, NC. Every nook and cranny has something new to discover and learn about nature. On the next rainy day, take a trip to your local museum. You will not regret it!
#3 Watch Nature Documentaries
Who doesn’t love a really good nature movie narrated by David Attenborough?!
Here are 2 must-see films that will put you in a nature mindset:
#4 Pick Up a New Outdoor Hobby
Photography, sketching, painting, or how about gardening? There are many things you can do outside to bring you joy!
Take pictures of the natural world. Check out this cool blog about macro photography.
I love gardening and building things. So, each spring I plan one project that I can do that involves the two. Check out how we built our dream garden here!
#5 Journal or Meditate in Nature
Nature has a way of awakening spirituality in humans. No matter what your religion or worldview, taking up a peaceful meditation habit or simply writing down things you are grateful for can completely change your world.
Make it a practice to do these things outside. Sit in the park or on your porch if you have one. Spend a moment in the sun or shade. Take in the sounds and smells of nature and allow your mind to quiet and become present.
#6 Step Outside (Your Comfort Zone)
I am unsure where I heard the quote, “Success lies just outside your comfort zone,” but I believe it wholeheartedly!
Make a list of the things you dislike and fear about the outdoors, and then write something positive for each item on that list. For real self-growth, conquer those fears and do those things.
Let us know in the comments if any of these habits changed your life for the better!
How to Become a Backyard Naturalist
The Carolina Backyard Naturalist Program
How to Become a Master Naturalist
Master Naturalist Program Georgia
Texas Master Naturalist
California Naturalist Certification
