Spending time outdoors among the flowers, trees, and wildlife?what's not to enjoy? There is plenty to inspire and learn from. Believe it or not, few people know how to relax, take time and get the most out of their experience. Here are five tips on how to take it all in and allow nature to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit.

1) Choose your favorite time of day to take a walk outdoors. The morning provides an abundance of pleasurable sensory experiences. Take in the wash of color, courtesy of the sun, clouds and ever changing light flickering on the leaves. You will hear a unique orchestra of instruments?the birds begin singing, the animals wake and start foraging for food. Try not to think about the clock, allow yourself to be on nature's time.

2) Clear your mind and breathe away your worries. Take slow deep breathes, allowing the natural pause that occurs as you inhale, and again after you exhale as you meditate. If distracting thoughts come to mind, push them away. Immerse yourself into the sounds and natural beauty around you.

3) Focus your energy. Once you are at ease, shift your focus from all that surrounds you to one object at a time. For example, take note of an incredible spider web or unique wildflower. Allow yourself to marvel a God's handiwork.

4) Use your senses as you enjoy the feeling of the rough bark as you stop to lean against a tree. Allow yourself the tactile pleasure of running your hand across the soft, green moss. As you breathe deeply, take in the different scents of the forest. Feel the energy of the wind as it flows around your body.

5) Experience nature with a grateful heart. Appreciate the miracles of life around you! Give thanks that you are on this earth and that you have the opportunity to be a part of nature. Collect items that remind you of nature and place them in basket for display. On days that you are too busy to get outside you will have them as a reminder of the peace and solitude you feel when you do.


Take as many opportunities as you can to enjoy the outdoors. You will return from your walk feeling inspired and at peace!