I ran a 28 day eco attachment challenge of 28 simple activities (you can find on my IG and start your own challenge!). The concept is fascinating – that there is a difference in being mindful of the importance of the natural environment and cultivating empathy and connection to it. The study showed that people’s behaviour changes for the positive if they are able to build authentic connection to the world, not just learn about it. It is so easy to become detached from the natural world, to lose sight of our dependance and reliance on what it provides. 2020 has been a horrific year in many ways because of COVID-19, I mean talk about hammering home the power of a virus to have such an impact on our human way of living.
I am sure it’s not a coincidence that here in the UK we have seen an increase during this time of gardening and people wanting to escape to the country. I am somehow reassured that in these difficult times that we have returned to that connection with the natural world – it seems we perhaps are not as disconnected as we might appear to be.
Some of us build in outdoor time into holiday activities. For others, it’s not routine at all. But being stuck inside can be a really challenge whether you are trying to wrangle bored children or bored adults. Perhaps you will be on your own this year and are feeling that the days are blurring into one. The mere mention of “going for a walk” can bring a howl of complaint – it’s too cold, it’s too dark, it’s too rainy. I am not suggesting that forcing the family to a bracing walk in the rain will always be the best solution – but perhaps you already do this!
Getting outside and getting fresh is good for us. Here are some easy ways to make it happen:
- As our Scandinavian cousins say, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. So make sure you are well suited for the weather – no-one finds wet cold feet a bringer of joy
- A pre-dinner sort stroll just as it is getting dark can be great – even 15 minutes walking around the block looking at all the lights.
- A reward of hot chocolate or hot snacks after a little excursion can be surprisingly encouraging (I speak from experience)
- A little nature adventure finding certain things isn’t too tricky to create (there’s plenty on the internet) and the focus can help keep the momentum
- Star gazing can be so much fun – could you have an outside fire ? Wrap up warm, a glass of hot something for everyone is a great way to get some fresh air
- If you are a very energetic lot, then planning a specific walk can be something to really look forward to. It’s also a great opportunity to create some space for those that would prefer some time in a quiet house while everyone is out tramping around
- Winter sun rises and sun sets are amazing – can you make time to go out and have a look?
- If you are in the Southern Hemisphere, no excuse not to get out into the sun, BBQ and get your Vit D levels up
Getting outside, no mention of COVID and no TV is bliss. Just sun, sticks, walks around the neighbourhood, muddy puddles and nature watch. Open fire and stars at night. Suddenly the world seemed a much bigger and more open space.
