A beginner's guide to: Being in nature

unplugging, outdoor fix, getting outside

Being in nature is a simple, accessible way to recharge by spending time outdoors, whether it's hiking, sitting in a park or just taking a walk around the block to get a break from daily life.

In a hurry and don't have any questions?

  1. Check out our safety recommendations.

  2. Determine how much time you have and which outdoor locations are accessible to you.

  3. Grab essentials like a hat, jacket, appropriate footwear and sunscreen if necessary.

  4. Get yourself outside!

  5. When you are ready, head to our Practice Guides and get started.

Looking for detailed practice guides? Hang tight, they are coming soon!

What is being in nature?

Spending time in nature is one of the easiest ways to refresh your mind and body. Whether you’re taking a stroll through a local park, hiking in the mountains or simply sitting in your backyard, nature offers a break from the daily grind. It’s about disconnecting from screens, getting some fresh air and enjoying the sights and sounds of the outdoors.

Many people find that even a short break outside helps them feel more revitalised and focused. If you’re feeling stuck indoors or overwhelmed, stepping outside can be a quick reset. Ready to get outside? Let's explore how you can easily incorporate more nature time into your daily routine!

Why being in nature is good for you

Spending time in nature is essential for your health, offering a natural way to reduce stress, increase focus and recharge both mentally and physically. This might be something you’ve taken for granted, but it’s a powerful activity for your mind and for your body. Don’t believe us? Read on!

Stress reduction

Emotional well-being

Improved focus

Intellectual well-being

Boosted mood

Emotional well-being

Physical movement

Physical well-being

Mental recharge

Emotional well-being, Self well-being

People who love being in nature

Jessica Watson

Person

Kate Middleton

Person

Andy Murray

Sports

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (Movie)

Movie

Real people's experiences

Getting started on being in nature? Read this first

Ready to escape your desk and breathe in some fresh air? We get it! Nature's calling, and it's great for everyone. Before you head out though, we've gathered a few tips below to help make your outdoor experience even more enjoyable.

Common styles

There are many ways to enjoy being in nature, depending on your preferences and surroundings. Here are some common styles of outdoor activities

Hiking

Forest bathing

Beachcombing

Urban walking

Safety

⚠️

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the conditions.

⚠️

Consider the environment and prepare for any location specific requirements.

What you might experience

🤔

"Why do people keep saying this is good for me?"

😊

"Ok, I already feel a bit more relaxed."

😬

"It's so tempting to check my messages"

😌

"This is actually kind of nice."

💡

"I should do this more often."

Getting started guides coming soon...

Are you ready to start being in nature?

We are busy working on detailed getting started guides and individual practice guides to follow.

What you need to know about being in nature

Let's compare three different ways to start being in nature for the first time: self-led (using online guided sources), group (IRL) and 1:1 with an instructor (online or IRL).

Compare

Recommendation for first-timer

Availability

Average cost per session

Special equipment required

Potential for socialisation & community

Safety & skill building

Space or privacy required

Ease of scheduling

Setup time

Active practice time

Unexpected advantages

Ancestry, history, facts and other trivia

The term "forest bathing" originates from Japan, where it's called "Shinrin-yoku.”

The band "Fleetwood Mac" was inspired by nature & their hit song "Landslide" reflected on the beauty of the mountains.

The practice of hiking for pleasure began in Europe in the 18th century.

Did you know: Trees talk to each other using a network of fungi that grow around and inside their roots.

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3 facts

Popular memes

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6 memes

Academic research we rate

Nature-Based Interventions for Psychological Wellbeing in Long-Term Conditions: A Systematic Review

Taylor, E. M., Robertson, N., Lightfoot, C. J., Smith, A. C., & Jones, C. R. (2022). Nature-Based Interventions for Psychological Wellbeing in Long-Term Conditions: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(6), 3214. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063214

Literature Review of Forest Healing Therapy on Korean Adults

Chae, Y. R., Kim, J. H., & Kang, H. (2017). Literature Review of Forest Healing Therapy on Korean Adults. Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science, 20(2), 122–131. https://doi.org/10.7586/jkbns.2018.20.2.122

Nature Exposure and Its Effects on Immune System Functioning: A Systematic Review

Andersen, L., Corazon, S. S., & Stigsdotter, U. K. (2021). Nature Exposure and Its Effects on Immune System Functioning: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 1416. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041416

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7 research pieces

Introduction guides from around the web

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