Nature journaling, a natural connection
A nature journal is a record of your thoughts and experiences with no right or wrong musings, just a collection of what you are pondering and considering.
The journal itself can be any book that you find meaningful in your nature journey, a hard or spiral-bound book of blank pages, or individual sheets of paper that you can compile over time into a body of work.
You can use simple tools to create your journal, such as a pencil or pen; for enhanced detail, use colored pencils or markers. Include nature specimens, drawings or photos from the places we hold most dear.
On your next outdoor trek, take along your nature journal and a pencil. Pause in a location where your attention has focused. This location may be one where you feel a sense of peace and belonging.
Begin writing down what you see. Notice the patterns, colors and images around you. Look for other forms of life visiting this special area. Think of what you notice, hear, see, smell and feel. Write your wonderings in your journal. There is no need to edit your thoughts or feelings; let them flow from your mind to the paper.
When appreciating the milkweed plant, an example of noticing and wondering for your journal may be: How do monarch butterflies decipher which plants are milkweeds? Why are butterflies attracted to the structure of this plant?
Why are these native milkweeds so beneficial to pollinators? How do I collect seeds so I can plant milkweed in my garden? Are there other plants that are beneficial to monarch butterflies?
As you write about your wonderings, try drawing what you see. Be creative, and do not aim for perfection!
Color your sketches with the colors you see or keep your drawing as a pencil sketch. Try to sketch the shapes you see first, look for the structures, then fill in the details.
Label as much as you can. Draw one detail at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed. For example, you can draw the image as separate parts, having a large leaf on the page or a large image of one bloom.
Continue to explore nature and fill your journal with inspiring words and images. Visit the same location to note changes and similarities throughout the seasons.
Use your nature journal to feel more connected, centered and mindful in the outdoors. This meaningful practice can change your perspective on your life and interconnections with our amazing, outdoor, natural world.
Cynthia Michelini is a Penn State Extension Butler County Master Gardener.
