There’s something magical about stepping into nature and leaving behind the busyness of daily life. Today’s walk at Herdsman Lake reminded me how powerful it can be to take time outdoors and reconnect with the world around us. Watching Black Swans glide peacefully across the water, Pelicans floating by, and Ibis wading in the reeds brought a sense of calm and clarity.
Beyond the beauty, science backs up what we feel—spending time in nature is incredibly beneficial for our mental health. Studies show that just two hours a week outdoors can significantly improve well-being. Whether it’s a stroll in a local park or a weekend hike, being surrounded by nature helps ease anxiety, boost mood, and even improve concentration.
For me, Herdsman Lake is easily accessible and has become a sanctuary. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or drained, a walk here brings immediate relief. The wide-open spaces, rustling trees, and calming flow of the lake work wonders. Watching the birds and the quiet rhythm of nature reminds me that there’s always peace to be found if we take the time to notice it.
So, the science says that nature walks aren’t just an escape—they build long-term resilience. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and physical movement recharges both body and mind. Being in nature also helps put things in perspective. Observing the simple, harmonious lives of animals, or the changing seasons, shifts focus away from everyday worries. It’s a grounding experience that offers mental clarity.
Today’s walk brought all of this into focus. The birds flying over the water, the gentle sounds of the wind—everything felt peaceful, and the tiger snakes stayed hidden was a relief!
As the research suggests that as little as two hours a week in nature is enough it doesn’t require a long hike, or hours spent in the wilderness; even short walks can make a difference. The key is consistency, whether it’s a daily 20-minute walk or a couple of longer strolls on the weekend.
Making time for nature may feel like a luxury, but I have found it’s worth it. These walks aren’t just a break—they’re a way to stay grounded, balanced, and mentally strong. For me, they are fast becoming a vital part of my routine, a habit that really supports my well-being.
If you ever feel overwhelmed or need space to breathe, I completely recommend a walk in nature. It’s a small habit with big rewards, and there’s always something to see, hear, and experience if we just take the time.
Trying Breathing Techniques Before Sleep: A Down-to-Earth Guide
Have you ever found yourself lying awake, staring at the ceiling, and wondering why your brain seems to have turned into a late-night radio show? Trust me, I’ve been there. After countless nights of restless tossing and turning replaying my day, I decided to try something a bit different: a simple breathing technique before bed. And what do you know? It’s been a game changer.
At first, the idea sounded a bit too basic. I mean, how could something as simple as controlled breathing really make a difference when your mind’s busy replaying every cringe-worthy moment of the day? But desperate times call for desperate measures, right? So, I decided to give it a go.
The process was straightforward. Instead of reaching for my phone or resorting to counting sheep (which, let’s be honest, never really seemed to work), I started focusing on my breath. I lay quietly in bed, closed my eyes, and simply began to slow down my breathing. In through my nose to fill my abdomen and then out through my mouth to release all tension from the day. Nice and steady. It wasn’t a magic pill or a fancy meditation app—it was just me, my breath, and a few minutes of peace.
The first night was a bit of an experiment. I set aside time to practise a couple of breathing exercises before sleep and even tried them out when I woke up in the middle of the night. I was pleasantly surprised to find that these simple techniques helped calm my mind, allowing me to drift back off without the usual frustration. It was as if my body was gently reminded that it was time to rest, not to overthink every little thing.
Now, I’m not suggesting that I suddenly became a breathing guru overnight. It takes a bit of practice and a willingness to let go of that incessant inner chatter. But if you’re anything like me—constantly battling the “insomnia monster”—this little trick might just be worth a go. Over time, I’ve noticed not only a better quality of sleep but also a more relaxed state of mind throughout the day. It’s amazing what a few mindful breaths can do for your overall well-being.
What’s even better is that it doesn’t require any fancy gadgets or a significant change to your routine. It’s cost-free, accessible, and can be done anywhere, anytime you need to reset. Plus, it gives you a moment of genuine self-care—an opportunity to pause, breathe, and simply be. And let’s be honest, in our busy lives, that is a rare luxury indeed.
So next time you find yourself wide awake at 3 a.m. with your brain running a marathon of thoughts, why not try some breathing techniques? It might sound a bit weird at first, but I promise it’s worth a try. After all, if counting sheep isn’t doing the trick, maybe it’s time to give your lungs a go instead. Who knew that something as simple as a few deep breaths could be the secret to a good night’s sleep?
Why not give it a try—you might just find that the simple act of breathing can lead to more peaceful nights and brighter mornings. Wishing you a better night’s sleep and a calmer mind!