Summer Sit Spot

Throughout the summer, I’m offering you nature and forest therapy invitations to explore. Whether you’re on vacation or a staycation, these nature activities are sure to help you relax and see the great outdoors in a new way. Accessible, free and suitable for both kids and adults, this is an opportunity to be present in the moment and connect to nature more deeply.

This week, I invite you to explore the beauty of “sit spot.” It’s hot and sometimes we need to sit and cool off, so this is the perfect warm weather activity. Ideally, you’ll do this first thing in the morning, or around dusk – that’s when wildlife is most active!

Wander in your yard or favorite park until you find a comfortable place to sit. Move slowly, being mindful of the plant and animal life in your neck of the woods such as thorns, poison ivy, snakes and ticks. Then, relax for 20 to 30 minutes, being as quiet and still as you can. It’s harder than it sounds, so give yourself some slack if you feel a bit fidgety at first. This takes practice!

Sit spot is a gentle form of meditation that everyone can do. If sitting is uncomfortable, find a position that works for you. Magic happens in times of silence and stillness. Sometimes the magic comes in the form of a wildlife encounter, or a personal revelation… the sky is the limit! I wonder what you’ll discover during your sit spot?!

Share what you’re noticing with a friend, family member, or in your journal. What thoughts or emotions are evoked by this experience?

I’d love to see pics and hear about your nature experiences! Tag me @naturalwanders.us on Instagram or Facebook.

Tree hugs and kisses!

- Kelly

ABOUT KELLY-

Kelly Bruce is a writer, freelance adventurer and mermaid at heart. Her career path has included journalism, marketing and communications, but her true passion is spending time in nature and inspiring people to get outside. Now, she provides nature and forest therapy walks in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, as well as virtual forest bathing workshops through Natural Wanders. She’s a copy editor and contributing writer for Portfolio, as well as our new Wander Wednesday blogger. We love having Kelly as part of our Portfolio girl gang and we hope her content will inspire you, naturally!