I was not always a nature person. Going on a nature walk was for other people, definitely not me. I admired those people, I just wanted to admire them from inside my house.
This was me on a nature walk: It was either too hot or too cold, or there were too many bugs and still miles of trail to go. I liked nature, I just didn’t want to be in it.
It wasn’t until I started homeschooling my kids that I became motivated to learn how to enjoy going on a nature walk. I’ve been more or less a nature lover for over 3 years now and I wish I wouldn’t have waited so long. I mean, I still don’t like bugs, but I no longer completely missed all nature has to offer.
If you are finding yourself less than thrilled for your next nature walk, like I was, then these tips are for you!
1- Learn About Nature
Like I said, I started getting interested in nature when I was learning about nature studies for homeschool. The first book we bought was Nature Anatomy and I think I spent 2 hours straight flipping through the pages. My eyes were opened to this whole other world. I was hooked! Find something in nature that you find interesting and learn as much as you can about it. Another favorite book is The Magic and Mystery of Trees,
2- Take Pictures On Your Nature Walk
I spent so much time looking down when I was on a hike. Just watching the trail and waiting for it to turn from a dirt path into concrete, meaning we were back at the parking lot. Once I finally looked up I saw how beautiful my surrounding were, I knew it had to be photographed. You don’t have to be a professional photographer to take a picture of something beautiful you see in nature. It’s fun to capture different angles and be creative when taking pictures. I like taking pictures of my kids in nature so we can look back on all the nature adventures we have been on.
3- A Nature Walk is Better With Family and Friends
I found a mom group that goes on nature walks once a month. If you are the social type then you might appreciate having company on your outings. Mom groups usually go on easier, stroller friendly walks, which is an added bonus when the kids are along. If you can’t find a group in your area, start one yourself!
On the weekends, make going on a nature walk a family event and invite extended family if they live close by. Being together in nature is a great way to connect with others. It’s also a free activity to experience with your loved ones.
4- Have The Right Nature Walk Gear
Clothing
Dressing in layers is key. Not only dressing in layers, but dressing in the correct layers is key.
Layers
Start with a base layer. This layer is responsible for keeping you dry. It is made of moisture wicking materials such as polyester or wool. There are different weights you can choose from. Lighter weight for warmer months and medium or heavy weights for colder months. In the winter you will want a base layer for your top and legs.
Next is the middle layer. This layer is responsible for insulation and keeping you warm. A good option would be a fleece zip up or pullover, or a down or synthetic filled jacket. I prefer a fleece pullover instead of a fleece jacket because I have broken the zipper on two fleece jackets.
Last is the outer layer. This layer is responsible for protecting you from rain, snow and wind. Look for a coat that is made out of waterproof material. I think it’s also important to find a long coat to wear in the winter. Shorter coats are fine for the fall and spring, but there’s nothing worse than cold winter wind and snow flying up your coat because it’s too short. To round this layer out is snow pants. I like these because the bib style adds more warmth.
In the spring and fall you might not need a full coat, so wear a puffer vest instead. Layer it over your fleece middle layer. I have cheaper puffer vest from Old Navy, but this Patagonia one has great reviews and is on my list!
Head, Hands and Feet
If your head, hands and feet aren’t warm you are going to be miserable. Keep your head warm with a cute beanie. The mittens I have are sold out, but this is the same brand and style just the gloves version. These are well made and very warm. Wool socks will keep your feet warm and dry and you will not regret investing in warm winter boots like these sorel boots or these from Rei. Here is a great option for hiking boots if or when you don’t need snow boots.
Supplies
Having a backpack with supplies is a good idea. On time my daughter got bite by some bugs that made her legs itch. Of course we didn’t have any itch cream. We ended up leaving because she was so miserable.
This is what I keep in our nature bag.
- sunscreen
- bug spray
- itch cream
- basic first aid kit
- extra pair of socks
- sun hat in the summer
- water
- snacks
- nature field guides: Search on Amazon for bird and tree field guides specific to your state.
5- Learn About The Health Benefits of Being in Nature
There are numerous studies and articles proving that being in nature has many health benefits. Being in nature boosts your immune system, lowers your blood pressure and improves sleep. I think that’s amazing! Not only that, but being in nature improves your mood and reduces stress, anxiety and depression. Mental health is so important and a free tool is just outside your front door. Being in nature is also physically healing, so cool! If you are needing to clear your mind, nature can help with that too. Being in nature leads to better concentration and focus and opens you up to creativity and clear thinking.
6- Make a Nature Walk Plan
This one sounds weird, but stay with me. You probably have heard the saying, A goal without a plan is just a wish? It’s a popular saying because it’s true! You have a goal to enjoy going on a nature walk. Great. But if you don’t plan any time to be in nature, your goal will just be a wish. I know for me, if I don’t schedule things they won’t happen.
Know the places around you. There are probably some really awesome hiking spots close to you that you weren’t even aware of. Or maybe you were, but never thought to check them out. If I plan ahead of time for a nature walk I am much more likely to enjoy it. If it’s last minute and I’m rushing to pack things and I don’t know what to expect I get stressed and won’t enjoy it as much.
7- The Nature Walk Might Be The Only Time You Unplug
My rule is that I turn my phone on airplane mode when I’m on a nature walk. I like taking pictures, so I need to bring my phone, so airplane mode is a happy middle. I also like having my phone with me because if I am alone chances are high I will get lost on the trail. My husband has tried multiple times to show me how to read a trail map, but it just doesn’t click for me. GPS is definitely my friend.
It’s so refreshing knowing that for the next hour or however long you aren’t going to be checking emails or scrolling Instagram. The first time you get into nature and unplug you realize how needed it is. I am happier when I get off my phone, lift up my eyes and see the actual physical beautiful world around me and not just see it through a screen.
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