Taking notice means being present in the moment; observing what’s beautiful or unusual in the world. It’s being aware of our thoughts and feelings as they arise and savouring the moment- whether you’re being active, connecting with a friend, learning a new skill, or giving to others.
Photography, creating artwork or writing about an experience, are all great ways to help you observe nature. You don’t need to be an artist because it’s the act not the result that matters.
When we stop and take notice of what’s going on around us, we can better appreciate the things that we feel are important. Knowing what’s important to us make positive decisions to improve our wellbeing. This may be as simple as putting up a hanging basket with flowers for the bees, it’s all a step in the right direction.
Ideas for activities
If you have one hour, you could …….
- Observe the changes of the seasons on your daily walk to work or school
- Take a photograph of a tree in your park each week and see how it changes through the year
- Look out into the sky each night and notice how the moon goes through its phases
- Read some nature poetry and have a go yourself
If you have half a day, you could……..
- Visit a nature reserve with a pad and pencil and sketch some trees or wild flowers
- Use a magnifying lens to take a close up look at nature on a local walk, you will be amazed!
If you have more time……….
- Develop your art skills by joining an art, poetry or photography group or class.