5 Easy Ways to Connect with Nature This Spring
We’re now well into spring, and after a few warm days and the feel of sunshine on our skin, it finally feels like winter is behind us. With the blossom putting on a beautiful show, the trees bursting back to life, the evenings getting lighter, the gentle warmth in the air; it all feels like a collective exhale. These are the perfect moments to explore ways to connect with nature.
Lately, I’ve been craving a deeper connection with the natural world. Life has felt busy and overwhelming in that subtle way where you don’t even realise you’re holding tension in your body until something forces you to slow down. And nature, quiet, steady, always there, has a way of helping me come back to myself. I’ve been seeking ways to connect with nature to aid this process.
If you’re feeling the same, here are five simple things I’ve been doing (or plan to do) to feel more grounded and in tune this spring. No pressure, no need for perfection, just gentle ideas of ways to connect with nature that you can easily incorporate into your life.
Ways to Connect with Nature
A Daily Walk (Without the Phone)
This one’s been a game-changer for me. I’ve started heading out for a short walk, with my phone tucked away. It’s amazing how different everything feels when you’re fully present, the birdsong, the breeze, the changing light. Even just wandering the same familiar route feels new when I’m not scrolling or checking emails. It’s like giving my brain a little reset button in the middle or at the end of the day.
Barefoot in the Grass (Yes, Really)
Okay, I know this one might sound a bit “woo”, but hear me out. There’s something oddly soothing about standing barefoot on grass or earth, especially first thing in the morning. It’s called “grounding,” and some studies even say it can help reduce stress and support better sleep. But more than anything, I just find it calming. A little ritual that brings me into my body and the present moment. I wrote a whole post about grounding if you want to know more.
Nature Journaling (Not Just for Kids)
I used to think journaling about nature meant sketching birds with perfect feathers, but it doesn’t have to be that serious. Sometimes, I’ll jot down quick notes in a notebook, or add things I’ve noticed on my walks to my gratitude, like the first daffodils, a robin hopping along the fence, or how the light hits the water on the river just right. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down and actually see what’s around me.
Bringing the Outside In
Let’s be honest, spring in the UK isn’t always sunshine and picnics. But there are still ways to bring a little outdoors magic into your home. I’ve been filling jars with blossom branches, opening the windows as often as possible, and growing a few herbs on the kitchen windowsill. It makes a difference. The kids love it too, it’s an easy way to get them involved without needing a whole outdoor adventure.
Forest Bathing (Not as Fancy as It Sounds)
This is one I’m still getting into. Forest bathing, or Shinrin-Yoku, is basically the art of just being in nature, no phone, no step-count goals, no distractions. I’ve started spending time in the woods near us, just wandering slowly, taking it all in. The smell of the trees, the way the light shifts through the leaves, the silence. It’s deeply calming. If you’ve got a local green space, even a tree-lined path, it’s worth trying.
Local Favourites in Bedfordshire
If you’re local to me, we’ve got some lovely places for slow, nature-filled time. I love Priory Country Park for a gentle stroll, Bedford Park when the blossom’s out, and the RSPB site in Sandy if I’m in a more wildlife-y mood. Bluebell season at Odell Woods is pure magic, and Harrold-Odell Country Park is great for an easy walk with the kids. Salcey Forest is my go-to when I want to disappear into the trees for a bit longer.
Spring always feels like a reset. And after months of rushing, doomscrolling, and juggling too many tabs in my brain, I’m leaning into the idea of slowing down and tuning in. These small, doable things have helped me feel more like me again, and more connected to the world outside my door.
Let me know if you try any of them, or tag me on Instagram @_just_eilidh when you’re out soaking up the sunshine. I’d love to see where this season takes you.