In episode 40 of the nature therapy podcast, I talk about our lazy minds when it comes to nature-connection, and how to shift our attention to notice the new.
It’s something that I try to do as often as I can when I’m outdoors; notice what my mind seems to be pre-programmed to pay attention to, and deliberately shift my attention in other directions. Notice it next time you are on a walk somewhere you go regularly, or even just sitting still outdoors. My bet is that you will be drawn to the same — or similar — things every time you are in a familiar setting.
For example, if I notice that every time I walk down my street I look at the ivy growing up my neighbour’s house, I shift my attention to another part of the street. That’s not to say I will never look at the ivy of course! I just try my best, at least occasionally, to challenge my mind’s tendency to only look at one part of the picture. Great things can be revealed this way! Tune in to find out more — and to listen to some lovely local birds with me!
