Finding our place in nature slows us down, brings awareness to the resilience of the Earth and can remind us of the resiliency in ourselves. Sharing artwork with friends and loved ones online or by phone can help us to be more aware of our feelings and the connections we have with others while we're physically staying apart.
This activity can be modified for different ages, needs and circumstances, alone or with children. Create or join an online group or plan to create individually at the same time as friends and meet online to share your experiences afterwards. If you're feeling well and able to safely leave your home go outside in your yard, balcony or for a short walk, be mindful about keeping at least 2 meters away from anyone around you. If you're self isolating open a window or door.
Pay attention to how the fresh air feels on your skin. What do you smell? What sounds do you hear? Do you notice any signs of spring? Is there anything that you feel drawn to? A place you'd like to explore or spend more time with?
Allow your body to slow down and be still. Notice the place you've chosen to be at this moment Does anything specific stand out to you? If this spot doesn't feel right try asking the hesitant parts of you what they need to feel safe and calm, allow these parts to be heard and their needs met.
Notice how you fit into your special spot and the way this spot affects you and the impact you're creating on nature. Try a new perspective, climb a tree, lay down on the ground.
Close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths, is there a word, image, phrase, poem, song or story that comes to mind? Pay attention to how your body feels in this moment.
Do you feel an impulse to create with natural items, to write or draw, sing, hum or move? Allow your body to lead. Does your song ask your body to dance or your land art inspire a poem? How does your hand want to draw when your brain doesn't tell it what to do?
As you reflect on your time with nature and your artwork, you might choose to write in a journal or share with others. Children might want to create a story while caregivers scribe for them.
Some things to think about: What stands out to you about the artwork itself or your creative process? Is there a part you'd like to explore more deeply? Anything about your experience that surprised you? What are you curious about?
During times of stress your nature spot might become a resource to help you remember the feelings and sensations associated with a calm body. Just seeing the artwork can help bring the body back to calm. The more we practice using our resources to return to a calm body, the easier it becomes to regulate our emotions.
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