Nature inspires: From the spiral of a seashell that inspires architecture to the calming colors of leaves and the bright hues influenced by flowers. And let’s not forget all the crazy color combinations you see in orchids and wildflowers that are used in fabrics.
Slowing down
Lately, I’ve been trying to slow down and actually see things-my morning walks in the park (not quite a forest bath, more like an urban nature bath!) have become this small ritual.
I stop to photograph the flowers and the plants. I study the shadows and search for random patterns. Nature inspires me every day.
Shinrin-yoku, the art of forest bathing
When I feel stuck, I turn to nature; it has a subtle way of offering help without saying a word.
There’s even a name for this: shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, a gentle reminder that sometimes all you need is to be near a tree, around bushes, barefoot in the dirt(or grass), or simply breathing in fresh air at a lovely park, to feel reset.
Are you afraid of going off into nature alone? Go with a buddy.
Turn to nature whenever you need to solve a problem
Whenever you have a problem that seems unsolvable and that you can’t stop thinking about, go to a park or off into nature for at least thirty minutes. Add an exercise like walking, and you will be ready to tackle your issues.
- You will feel calmer pretty quickly just by being surrounded by all that green.
- Changing your location will also help shift your mood and lower your anxiety.
- Walk at different paces. I’ve just started a new 30-minute routine: I alternate between walking slowly for 1 minute and walking fast for 1 minute. This thirty-minute routine has helped me tremendously! It helps me shift my mood very quickly, I feel a lot more energized, and it helps my blood pressure and many other things. Walk slowly for at least 15 minutes after the 30-minute routine and review your issues. Nature and the exercise will help you find new answers and solutions now that you are in a new mental place.
- If you don’t want to do my alternate fast and slow walking routine: Walk at an easy pace for 30 minutes.
I believe it’s crucial to move our bodies while taking a nature break because it allows our minds to slow down and to think more clearly.
And, before you go, download our e book: 7 Steps to create a happier life
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Updated August 2025
