Reconnecting with Nature: A Simple Creative Writing Activity

Are you feeling out of touch with nature?

Perhaps you’re lost in the world of screens and just need space to breathe. Try out this simple creative activity to get back in touch with nature, and to explore your creative side.

1. Take a short walk outside, it doesn’t have to be in a green space- just around the block is fine. If this isn’t the first time walking around this area, imagine that it is. Walk slowly; dilly dally; stop and start and take time to look around.

2. As you walk, pay attention to your senses. What stands out to you that you see, smell, hear, taste or touch? 

3. What is one thing that you keep coming back to? Perhaps an interesting mark on the floor; a scent from a flower or the feeling of raised pavement under your soles.

4. When you get back home, write about your journey including all of those sensory experiences you had. If you feel your walk lacked excitement, get a bit creative- perhaps your journey takes place in another town; country or planet. 

5. Looking back at your piece of writing, highlight anything that stands out.

6. Can you use the words, phrases or sentences you have highlighted to create an abstract poem?

   
   

When you next go on a walk, no matter how short, take time to stop and to breathe. Write down your experiences, thoughts and emotions as well as any sensory experiences that you have. Document these in a notepad, or on your phone, and see what changes day by day, month by month and season by season. You can then use these notes to create multiple poems or pieces of prose or create a larger piece that creates a journey through time.

Happy writing!