Embracing Mindfulness in Nature During Winter
Winter offers a unique opportunity to practice mindfulness in nature. The crisp air, serene landscapes, and the quiet stillness of the season can enhance your mindfulness practice in ways that other seasons might not. Here’s how you can make the most of winter’s beauty and tranquility.
The Benefits of Being in Nature During Winter
Spending time outdoors in winter can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The cool, fresh air can invigorate your senses, while the peacefulness of winter landscapes can help you find inner calm. The presence of frost and ice can add a magical touch to your surroundings, making your mindfulness practice even more special.
Mindfulness Activities for Winter
Mindful Walking: Take a slow, deliberate walk through a park or nature reserve. Pay attention to the crunch of leaves underfoot, the sound of the birds, and the chill in the air. Notice how your body feels with each step.
Outdoor Meditation: Find a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably (wrapped up warm!). Focus on your breath and observe, your breath in the cold air, the patterns of frost on the ground and the shapes and textures of nearby plants. Let the intricate designs draw you into a state of mindfulness.
Observing Winter Scenery: Spend time simply observing the winter landscape. Notice the bare trees, the way the light changes throughout the day, and the beauty of this dormant time of year. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.
There’s really nothing complicated about practicing mindfulness when outside, the key is to allow yourself to really relax into your surroundings, actively listening out for the sounds of nature.
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If you walk your dog everyday you may find you are already practicing a form of outdoor mindfulness.
Read our guide to the Proven Benefits of Getting Outside in Winter to see exactly how beneficial getting outside and into your local green spaces can be.
Practical Tips for Outdoor Winter Mindfulness
- Dress Warmly: Layer up to stay warm and comfortable. Wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect yourself from the cold.Read our Guide to Layering for tips.
- Stay Safe: Be mindful of icy or muddy paths and take precautions to avoid slips and falls. Always let someone know where you’re going if you’re heading out alone.
- Download OS Maps: Download the OS Maps App to discover new routes and footpaths in your area. This app can help you find beautiful, lesser-known spots to practice mindfulness and explore nature. You can also send your friends and family a route link to let them know where you are walking.
Winter is a wonderful time to embrace mindfulness in nature. The season’s unique beauty and tranquility offer a perfect backdrop for your practice. So, bundle up, head outside, and let the winter landscape inspire your mindfulness journey. And don’t forget to download the OS Maps App to find new routes and make the most of your outdoor adventures!
By Hilary Pullen
Meet Hilary, Editor of Get Outside – the Ordnance Survey Blog. Hilary is based in North Wales and loves hiking with her dogs in the mountains of Eryri and Bryniau Clwyd, you can find her on Instagram @nearlyuphill and read her guides to walking in North Wales on her blog. Drop her an email hilary.pullen@os.uk if you are interested in posting an article on Get Outside.
