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!
After Mindful mornings I am looking at digital detox
As we enter the second month of 2025, I am committed to thrive in 2025 – not just getting through each week but really embracing new ways to care for my body and mind. Each week, I’ll be exploring and introducing a new self-care concept, and this week’s focus is on the idea of a digital detox.
In our hyper-connected world, we rely on our devices for nearly everything—from communication to entertainment to work. But while technology certainly makes life easier in many ways, it can also overwhelm us, draining our energy, focus, and even joy. I’ve been reflecting on how often we mindlessly reach for our phones, check emails, or scroll social media without even realizing it. This got me thinking about the concept of a digital detox—an intentional break from screens, social media, and the constant influx of information.
What does a digital detox look like? It doesn’t have to mean giving up technology entirely for days or weeks at a time. Even taking a few minutes each day to step away from digital devices can create a noticeable shift in our well-being. For some, a detox might look like setting boundaries around screen time—perhaps choosing to switch off all notifications after a certain time in the evening. For others, it could mean dedicating one day a week to being completely device-free. The beauty of this practice is that it can be tailored to fit our individual needs and lifestyles.
There is compelling evidence to support the benefits of a digital detox. Studies show that excessive screen time is linked to increased stress, anxiety, and poor sleep quality. Reducing our time online, even in small doses, can lead to improved concentration, enhanced mood, and more restful sleep. Importantly, it can also help us reconnect with the present moment, strengthening our relationships and increasing mindfulness. When we’re not distracted by our devices, we can truly engage with the people and activities around us.
Personally, I’m curious about the long-term benefits of integrating this into my routine, especially as someone who works in a fast-paced, digital-heavy environment. This week, I’ll be trying out a few different strategies to find what works for me. One simple step I’m starting with is designating the first hour of my morning and the last hour before bed as screen-free zones. This gives me space to begin and end my day with intention, rather than being bombarded by emails or social media.
Another approach I’m exploring is setting aside one evening a week for a “digital-free” date with myself (and possibly my husband!). Whether I use this time to read, take a walk, or enjoy dinner without distractions, the idea is to be fully present and give my mind a chance to reset.
If you’re considering your own digital detox, I encourage you to start small. Try putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb” for short stretches or set time limits on apps that tend to eat away at your focus. The key is consistency—making these small steps part of your regular self-care routine.
In 2025, I’m determined to thrive, and I believe that stepping back from the digital world, even briefly, is one way we can all start to reclaim our time, attention, and peace. Let’s embrace this journey together.
Mindful Mornings
Since the start of 2025, I made a promise to myself: I would begin each day with mindfulness. No rushing to check emails, no diving straight into work. Instead, I’d take the time to meditate, sip my peppermint tea, and simply enjoy the early morning stillness. And let me tell you, it’s made a world of difference. But this morning, I found I tested the waters and skipped that mindful start. Spoiler alert: it was a mistake.
It started around 5 a.m., when I woke up with a head full of tasks. Normally, I would stretch, breathe deeply, and start my day with a few minutes of meditation, grounding myself for whatever lay ahead. But today I reverted to my 2024 habits, the list of things I needed to do overwhelmed me, and I thought, “Why not just jump into work and get ahead of it all?” So instead of sitting in the garden with my tea, I found myself glued to my computer, finalising contracts before the sun had fully risen.
By the time I left for the office, the stress had already set in. I felt scattered, mentally drained, and frustrated. I hadn’t even made it to work yet, and I was already exhausted! My usual sense of calm was nowhere to be found. My husband asked why I was so grumpy! I knew something had to change, so I made a quick decision to drive along the beach road instead of my usual route.
As I looked out to the ocean, I had a moment of clarity. The waves gently rolling in, the early light sparkling on the water—it hit me how beautiful this place really is. I’d been so caught up in the rush of the morning that I’d forgotten to pause and appreciate it. And that’s when I realised the true power of my new usual mindful mornings. It wasn’t just about the meditation or the quiet tea in the garden; it was about starting the day with intention, with a moment of peace before the hustle of the day begins.
Today, the absence of that peaceful start made me appreciate just how much of a difference those moments had been making. By focusing on mindfulness first thing in the morning, I’d been setting myself up for better days—calmer, more focused, and more in tune with myself and the world around me.
So, here’s the lesson I learned: skipping that mindful start isn’t worth it. From now on, I’ll stick to my routine. I’ll keep starting my mornings with meditation, stepping outside to listen to the birds, and watching how the spider’s web in the garden has grown overnight. I’ll continue sipping on my peppermint tea while noticing the lemons turning a brighter yellow, inching closer to the day I’ll turn them into lemonade.
It’s in those small, mindful moments that I’ve found balance. And next time the work pressures creep in early, I’ll remind myself that nothing is more important than beginning my day with peace. After all, the emails and contracts can wait, but those calm moments at sunrise are fleeting.
If you’ve ever felt like the morning rush steals your peace, I encourage you to give mindfulness a go. Whether it’s a short meditation, a quiet cup of tea, or just taking a moment to breathe and notice your surroundings, it can make all the difference. I’ve learned that lesson today—and I won’t be forgetting it anytime soon.