The Art of Nature Doodling
In a world that feels fast and full, simple practices such as doodling are highly under-rated. Usually a pass-time to combat boredom in a meeting or while on hold for that impossible call with an automated enquiry system, doodling can in fact give us much, much more.
Nature doodling is the mindful act of sketching or drawing of natural shapes, forms and textures (think leaves, feathers, spirals, petals, seed heads or flowing water lines) It’s not about making perfect art or realistic drawings. It’s about tuning in, slowing down and letting your hand draw freely. You can doodle directly from what you see in nature or simply let your mind wander while recalling your favourite nature scenes or textures. If you need a visual, something to trace or something to simply take some inspiration from, you can download a free copy of Root & Restores Nature Doodles HERE
The Benefits of Nature Doodling
Reduces Stress & Anxiety; Doodling has been shown to calm the nervous system and activate a state of flow, that lovely feeling where time slows down and thoughts settle. When combined with nature the calming effect is even greater. It’s a gentle way to quiet the mind and reduce overwhelm.
Encourages Mindfulness; Drawing natural forms requires your attention. You begin to notice the small things, the way a fern unfurls, the pattern on a shell, the symmetry of a daisy. This kind of focused noticing brings you into the present moment, which is the very heart of mindfulness.
Builds a Connection to Nature; It helps you to ‘see’ nature. To draw it or to think of it means you are focused on it. Nature doodling helps deepen your appreciation for the wild things around you no matter how small. You begin to appreciate the textures, the rhythms and the beauty in everything you wouldn’t normally notice. It helps build a sense of awe and belonging.
Unlocks Creative Flow; Nature is full of irregular, flowing and beautiful forms. Whether you enjoy art, dislike it or have just never really spent any time doing it, doodling is free from the normal pressures associated with drawing. There’s no ‘wrong’ way to doodle a leaf or a stone - only your way. A doodle is a doodle, it is personal to you and requires only a pen/pencil and a piece of paper.
Supports Mental Health; Creative activities like doodling and of course, being out in nature, have both been linked to improved mood, reduced cortisol levels and a greater sense of wellbeing. Even five minutes with a pen and a simple prompt and added to that a quiet moment in nature, can be an important restorative act.
Try it for yourself, you don’t need any fancy tools or art degrees, just a pen and paper and a few minutes of stillness. You might like to sit outside, or by a window. You might like to create doodles from your imagination, or use prompts. There’s no pressure to make anything ‘good’, simply let your pen wander like a stream, curl like a petal or sprout like a seed.
This is not about making art. It’s about coming home to yourself. No rules, no pressure, just pen, paper & peace.
Drop me a comment or tag me on Instagram, I’d love to see your doodles!
