I saw a note the other day about the people that walk without headphones and music or a podcast playing and I must admit I am one of those people that walk with nothing but the sounds of nature and their own thoughts. And it’s actually quite delightful. If you haven’t tried it, I recommend you do so. In fact, some of my best writing ideas come from those mindful walks.
On a similar note, I have been trying to become more aware of the time I spend on my phone and/or social media. If I realize it’s been a while, I’ve made it a habit in the past couple weeks to put my phone down and find something else to do. A few months back I created a list of things I would rather do than mindlessly scroll on my phone and I’ve really been trying to make better use of this list.
While doing this, I started to notice all the things I might have missed if I was instead looking at my phone or wearing headphones. It was the perfect reminder that life around you doesn’t stop when you are looking down.
Here are just a few of the things I would have missed out on experiencing :)
Two yellow butterflies following me on my walk.
The subtle daily changes of the fields turning a golden yellow.
Now for this one I still technically had my phone, but I only brought it out when I heard birds. I downloaded the Merlin Bird App and identified the songs of 12 different birds.
Hearts in nature 💚 (again I just took my phone out for the picture)
All the turtles sun bathing while I was kayaking 🐢
So take this as your sign to…
This week, I challenge you to create your own list of things you’d rather do than mindlessly scroll on your phone. Do them and pay special attention to every little thing you would have missed if you would have been looking at your phone.
If you would like to show your support, please like, comment, share, subscribe, or buy me a coffee (aka book) :)
-Leanna
Thanks @leannajulius ☺️ Today on my walk - without phone or earbuds - I saw:
🐄 a calf kicking up its legs and playing
🦋 a butterfly fluttering up from the path
🐑 a shy sheep
🍃 the very first tiny changes in the leaves
💙 the most beautiful clear blue sky
🐕🦮🐩🐕🦺 a LOT of dogs
This is such a lovely reminder! and also I really value the sharing of what you saw - it's like a special show & tell (we don't have that in the UK but I like the idea). I always walk the dog without looking at my phone, but I do look at it far more than I need to at home. Thank you for both sharing the photos and reminding me!
Very inspiring to hear! I always walk out in nature with just my quiet mind, as I love to look about for all of the birds, flowers and the trees around. You miss so much other wise! 😊 Love the sunbathing turtles. 🐢