What is Mindfulness in Nature or Natural Mindfulness?

Mindfulness in Nature or Natural Mindfulness is the practice of mindfulness in an outdoor environment such as woodlands, forests and beaches.

‘Humans are increasingly becoming an indoor species. We spend 90% of our life indoors. And, on average, we dedicate 8 hours looking at screens. Our increasingly domestic lives are having huge consequences on our health’ (Dr Qing Li, 2019)

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Natural mindfulness can also be known as Forest Bathing which is based on the Japanese practice, Shinrin Yoku, which can be translated as “taking in the medicine or atmosphere of the forest.”

Forest bathing began in its current form in Japan in the 1980s and has recently grown more popular worldwide.’

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-forest-bathing-5190723

Natural Mindfulness or Forest bathing is the purposeful paying attention of our senses; observing the natural environment. This involves being present and aware of sounds, smells, tastes, textures, bodily sensations and noticing emerging feelings.

‘We all know how good being in nature can make us feel. We have known it for millennia. The sounds of the forests, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air – these things give us a sense of comfort. The ease our stress and worry, help us to relax, and to think more clearly. Being in nature can restore our mood give us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us. We know this deep in our bones’

DR Qing Li, Into the Forest: How trees can help you find health and happiness (2018)

According to Research being in nature and practicing Mindfulness can