One Easy Trick To Stay Positive

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How Can You Stay Positive?

It starts with noticing the little things. And nature. In particular, walking in nature, but if you walk too fast, you might miss some incredible wild life. Take it all in.

Walk in Nature

Our daily walks are for more than exercise, they’re also to clear our heads and refresh our souls. And for me anyway, the best way to do that is to walk in nature.

Be Curious

When I’m surrounded by the natural world I feel like I’m a curious 6-year-old again. There is so much to learn. I want to know how it works. How do the weeds spread here but not there? Where does that bird hide its nest? Are those magpies a couple? Are they monogamous? Who lives in that size hole? Snake, mouse, gopher?

Let Your Thoughts Land on What You See Around You

When we let our minds drift over and land on thoughts regarding nature there doesn’t seem to be any room left for negative thoughts. It’s a neat trick.

On a recent walk, out of the corner of my eye, I saw something scurry along the path beside me. I had to get right down low to see the mother spider with her egg sac. I’m glad I didn’t step on her. She was really moving until she noticed me, and then she froze. I snapped a photo and, not wanting to stress her anymore, moved along. It occurs to me how much of a double standard I have for spiders. I appreciate them in nature, but let one step inside my house and it’s a whole different matter. Sorry spiders but mi casa NO es tu casa.

On this particular path we have seen a hummingbird perched on the same tree every day for the past 6 weeks. What’s his deal? Is he guarding his food source, there are a few lilac bushes close by, or is he in fact a “she” with a nest in the area?

This flowers parachute ball is waiting patiently for a gust of wind to carry its seeds to an accepting piece of dirt. How many survive, I wonder? It’s not a dandelion, but is it in the same family? Are its leaves edible too? See? I have so many questions!

No Room For Negativity

You see, when I am out walking in nature, there is no room in my mind to be thinking about the state of the economy or the pandemic or racial inequality. I focus my mind on these peaceful creatures. Nope, unsettling thoughts are not invited while we’re walking. They will try to get my attention when I turn the light out and prepare to sleep, but if I’ve walked long enough, I’ll be too tired to allow them in. Another benefit of getting out and walking in nature.