Great Green Idea: Green Living: The Inspiration of Nature Journaling

The Inspiration of Nature Journaling

Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for adults and children to take time to think about the wonders of nature. Keeping a journal of nature can be used to observe, ponder upon and enjoy character in the world around us.

Materials Needed

The journal itself can be made of an art book, composition book, spiral notebook or a handmade book. Utensils are needed to draw and write journal entries in the desired book. It is as simple as this, or more extravagant art supplies may be used as well.

Location

The location during the time of nature journaling can be in an unlimited number of locations. It can be as simple as your back yard, a park, nature reserve, the zoo, a pond as well as any location that allows individual journaling to connect to nature.

Time

Nature journaling can be done in shorter amounts of time as well as longer periods. Some individuals may do better with longer periods if it takes a small amount of time to relax and focus. Time is also needed to draw or journal thoughts about what they are observing to be fully effective.

Styles

Styles of journaling may differ from one individual to another. One person may want to journal on one side of the open book while drawing pictures on the opposite side. Different styles of writing or note taking can be used. Use your creative imagination and let the journaling time flow naturally.

Reflection

Nature journaling is a time of reflection. What questions come to mind while doing your journaling time? What are your first impressions? What did you learn? What did you really enjoy? Any reflection thoughts can also be written in your book.

Children

Children and adults alike can take time to journal. It is a wonderful tool to connect to nature and learn through observation. Very young children do not have to have a lot of writing skills; they can simply draw pictures and write in a way they are comfortable with. If the parent desires, they can add notes about what the child learned or what they were impressed with.

Seasonal

Journals can be used on a seasonal basis if desired. It can be a holiday focused journal, a fall journal or otherwise. Journals can also be done throughout the year. It is the individual's choice in how often to journal.

Journaling is a wonderful tool for use by people of all ages. It allows the individual to sit, relax, focus, enjoy and learn. Journals can be dated and reviewed at a later time frame and used as a memory book. Photographs or pressed leaves can be added as well as your own personal creativity!