Nature connection, mindfulness, and awe tend to go together

What is it about?

Many people say that spending time in nature helps them feel calmer, happier, more present, and more creative. In this study, we explored how feeling connected to nature relates to two other experiences being mindful (paying attention to the present moment) and feeling awe (a sense of wonder and amazement). Our finding suggests that these experiences - nature connection, mindfulness and awe - often go hand in hand.

Featured Image

Photo by Christopher Ruel on Unsplash

Photo by Christopher Ruel on Unsplash

Why is it important?

In a time when many people feel overwhelmed, distracted, or disconnected, this research helps highlight the importance of our relationships with the natural world. Spending time in nature is important to our mental health and well-being. It may help us develop our skills for paying attention to the world within us and the world around us. Being in nature, and paying attention, can support feelings of being in awe and being connected to nature and to something larger than ourselves.

Perspectives

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Practicing this work has brought a deepened capacity for present moment awareness, a deepened connection to the natural world, and I find myself having experiences of awe more often. I am so grateful to my collaborators, my participants, and the lineage of scientists and wisdom teachers that have paved the way for this tiny beautiful study.

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