Ideas to help you enjoy nature this New Year

Fall in love with nature in a new way this New Year! Here are some ideas to help you make ‘enjoying nature’ more intentional: 

-Bring nature into your home or garden. Plant a herb or flower as a reminder of our responsibility to steward God’s earth. As you tend to this plant, prayerfully ask God how you might nurture nature better at home.

-Take a wildlife quiz. From cool questions on the coldest regions to testing for knowledge on the deep blue sea, learn something new about nature alone or with your family with WWF’s selection of fun quizzes. Or could you host an A Rocha UK Green Quiz event?

-Spot winter wildlife. Winter is still a great time to be outdoors and see wildlife. Soak up the seasonal sights on your doorstep or find out what you can see in different parts of the UK here.

-Walk and Worship. Go for a walk in nature and note all the signs of the season. Use this time to reflect on the changing season and what we can be thankful for.

-Write about or draw something that inspires you in nature. Try this one as a group activity and share your ideas and reflections.

-Birdwatch. A great way to begin could be taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch this January (27-29).

-Visit an outstanding area of beauty in the UK. Many of our Partners in Action offer beautiful surroundings and even retreat days or weekends. Check out The National Trust’s website for your nearest escape to nature too.

-Get to your nearest green space more often. Time spent enjoying God’s creation will help set your mind and seek the things that are above. Bring your sketch or note book, your Bible, or whatever helps you connect with our heavenly Father. Or perhaps God is inviting you to just bring yourself (with some extra layers!) and simply sit.

-Bring a friend along! Next time you meet up with a friend, why not suggest an extended or brisk wintery walk together (don’t forget your reusable coffee cups!) 

-Try out a new delicious meat-free recipe. What we eat impacts the earth’s resources. Get creative in the kitchen and sample some tasty Meat Free Monday recipes here.

-Grow your own. What could you grow inside your home, in the garden or even at church? Who can you bless along the way? 

-Plan a Wild Time! Plan something completely wild in nature for later this year. Experience kayaking, wild camping, forest school, forest church… Make it your resolution to really enjoy what nature has to offer this year. Break out of your normal routine and join a volunteer work party or take to the water for wild swimming. Whatever you do – do something different and have fun!

Do you have other ideas that would help others to enjoy and connect to God’s wonderful creation? Tag us on social media and let us know.