Wintertime Is a Magical Time To Connect With Nature

It’s no secret that I’m Mother Nature’s biggest fan. I live in the mountains of Colorado and see the rocks, trees, and trails as my playground. Not only do I get my physical activity out in nature, I get grounded and have some of my best business and personal downloads while I’m out there, too.

You see, I believe Mother Earth has deep wisdom for all of us, and it’s available at every turn… and in every season. Even in the biting and snowy mountain winters, you’ll find me outside, exploring the trails and feeling alive and fired up with every breath I take in.

So if you’re more of the bundle-up-and-stay-inside type when the weather gets cold, I invite you to reconsider. Connecting with nature, even in the winter, can be incredibly magical.

Benefits of Being Outdoors in Winter

Getting active outdoors in the winter has more benefits than you’re probably thinking. Here are just a few:

Just like in the warmer months, the natural daylight raises your serotonin levels. Since serotonin is one of your body’s feel-good chemicals, getting outdoors can help lift your mood. Bonus: you get a shot of vitamin D!
Being in nature has similar effects to meditating. Even better if you meditate in nature! Remember, you don’t need to be seated and still to meditate — you can turn a walk into a meditation… even in the winter!
The chilly air can be exhilarating, and since you won’t sweat as much, you may be more likely to move your body for longer if you take your workouts outside. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy seasonal activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

How to Connect (And Have Fun, Too!)

From fun to profound, there are so many great experiences you can have outdoors during the winter. Here are some ideas. Be sure to add your favorites in the comments section of this post.

Profound

Sit on a rock, tree stump, or directly on the ground, and ask, “What would you have me know?” Be still and listen for any downloads from your highest self or a higher power. If you have your phone with you, record the message you receive. If you don’t receive a message, that’s okay. You can try again another time.
Listen to the sounds of nature and sit in gratitude for the ability to hear them and to see what made the sounds.
Walk (carefully!) on a snowy path or trail (or simply walk through your yard), and be present with the sound of the crunch beneath your feet. Notice the uneven terrain and how your muscles have to work to steady yourself and keep your balance. Know that even with boots and snow between you and the ground, you are connected to the earth.

Fun

Go sledding! This is one of my family’s favorite winter activities and it most definitely qualifies as a workout!
Make snow angels. You’ll feel like a kid and leave behind some beautiful natural artwork as you move your body.
Go on a bird-watching hike. If you have woods or a park nearby, set out with a goal to spot 10 different types of birds before heading back to the car.
Have a snowball fight. Nothing gets the blood pumping quite like dodging a hurtling snowball.
Play with a dog. Most pups love playing in the snow. Throw some up in the air and watch them leap after it, or simply catch their excitement and run around the yard or up a snowbank with their same enthusiasm.

Connecting with nature in the winter could be one of the best things you do for yourself during the cold and gloomy months. View it as a chance to experience something new and be open to the transformation Mother Nature is waiting to share with you, your body, and your soul.

When you’re ready to come inside and warm up, try a mug of Cacao Bliss, a chocolatey superfood blend, or Golden Superfood Bliss, a rich, warming golden drink.