5 Ways to Unwind and Destress in Nature

Moving is stressful! Over the last couple weeks, I’ve been cleaning out, saying goodbye to friends, and finding a place to live in our new state. One strategy I use when I feel stressed get grounded by connecting to nature. Getting yourself outside is nurturing, calming and it’s free! You may not be moving this weekend, but you probably have some other stress in your life.  Take a break to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings with one of these ideas. Let me know how it goes in the comment section below.

1. Go on a walk with "owl eyes." I learned this technique recently from a teacher, Jena la Flamme, and have been using it every time I take Rocky for a walk. We spend so much time focusing our eyes on screens.  The next time you are outside, take a break from all this focus, and let your vision soften. Look to the outer edges of your sight, your peripheral view. By looking at the natural world with your “owl eyes” you will see the expanse and beauty of your surroundings. Try switching between your "owl eye" view and focus by looking at a single detail like a leaf or a flower.
2. Be a Yogi outside. What’s even better than yoga or meditation for relaxation? Yoga or meditation outdoors! Grab a mat, blanket or towel, turn on some relaxing music and take a break in your backyard or favorite park.   If you live in Chicago, don’t miss the morning workouts in Millennium Park this summer. Yoga outside with hundreds of Chicagoans is one my favorite things to do in the city.
3. Go on a picnic. If you’re feeling more social this weekend, take your family on or invite your friends to a local park or beach for a picnic. Want the picnic to be low key? Have everyone bring something to share. We did this in Paris and had a blast!
4. Get your hands dirty. Plant a garden, even just a pot of herbs. Or, buy some flowers and make a flower arrangement. Getting creative will get you out of your head and you’ll end up with something beautiful.
5. Watch a storm. Not meditation weather outside? Try sitting on a porch or by a window and watch Mother Nature's wild side. 

I hope you spend time outside and take in all that nature has to offer this Memorial Day weekend. Don't forget to share with me how you choose to unwind outdoors in the comments below.