Nature Gazing
There aren't many things more common in nature than grass. But when was the last time you really stopped to look at it? I mean really look at it?
Nature gazing is a simple path to slowing down and beginning to see again with that childlike, everything-is-new wonder. We're drawn into the present, and suddenly there's plenty of room for delight, peace, joy, and connection to come in and play.
Ready to get started? Get your guide.
Nature Gazing is a Practice of the Heart
Not the head.
Nature gazing is not a skill to learn or a technique to master. It's an opening of the heart to receive beauty — choosing one thing in nature, staying with it a short while, and seeing it deeply.
You don't need special equipment or prior knowledge.
There's no right or wrong way to do it.
It isn't a hike or a walk — it's something else entirely.
It's simple, free, and easy to do anywhere, anytime.
All it asks of you is an open heart, ready to receive whatever God has for you.
What Nature Gazing Can Do for You
I've found that in today's world, in spite of my best efforts, it's become increasingly difficult to escape the avalanche of thoughts constantly swirling in my mind. Infinite choices have become infinite opportunities for anxiety and overwhelm.
Most of us have heard that getting out in nature is good for us. This is absolutely true.
But I've gone out for a walk more than once hoping for a little peace of mind, only to reach the end and realize I hadn't noticed a thing along the way. Instead I'd spent the entire time entertaining the very thoughts I wanted to escape.
Nature gazing is something I use to bring myself into the present moment. To truly step away from all of that and enter a space where I can receive the beauty of God's creation around me — to really see what is right before my eyes.
And in truly seeing it, I open myself to actually receiving the goodness that comes from being out in nature.
You Can Begin Nature Gazing Today
Ever gone on a peace-seeking walk, only to finish not having noticed a single detail along the way? I have, and that’s why I created the Nature Gazing Guide — because if it helps even one person the way it's helped me, it's worth sharing.
It's a 5-minute practice, simple enough to start right now. Yours free, along with Notes from the Bower, my monthly reflections on finding God in creation.
Enter your email and I'll happily send it your way.
From Friends of the Bower…
“I tend to rush out and romp—ever in a hurry to experience the next thing without really taking the time to experience it. The step to find one spot nailed me.”
— Christine“I have been practicing the art of seeing God in nature for a while now and your writings are helping me reach that goal.”
— Madelyn, California“I truly enjoyed your Notes from the Bower this morning as I sat on the deck with my tea taking in the beauty of the nature surrounding me.”
— Lydia, Missouri