How to find nature in your everyday life

Most of us aren’t exactly short on things to do, which means that “getting out into nature” can often take a back seat to putting a wash on, grabbing a pint with our mates or finally replying to that message from three weeks ago. It sounds nice in theory, but in reality? We’ve got a commute (some days), a job, friends, family and about 400 other things competing for our attention.

The good news is that nature isn’t just reserved for countryside weekends or two-hour long walks - it’s all around us. Sure, it might be slightly hidden or slightly overlooked, but it’s definitely there, whether that’s in your local park, on your commute to work or somewhere looked after by the National Trust. You just have to notice it.

With a whole host of different studies showing the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature, it’s safe to say it’s worth making the effort. And you don’t have to dramatically change your routine – five minutes here or a slightly different route there add up without you really trying at all.

Here are some easy ways to find a bit of nature nearby, even if you live in the middle of a busy town or city.

Add five minutes on your commute to walk through the park

If there’s a park even vaguely near your route, it’s worth the small detour. You don’t need to do a full loop - just cut through instead of sticking to the main road and you’ll still end up at the same destination, just with a bit more green and a bit less traffic noise.

Stop and smell the roses on your way to the bus stop

You don’t need to be in a field somewhere to find something growing - there’s usually a flower bed, a hedge or someone’s front garden doing its best nearby. Take two seconds to actually stop, admire it and smell it if you don’t mind a few odd looks. Not that many people will be judging (and if they are, they’re probably just jealous).

And get off the bus one stop early

Not every day – some days we get to the office with minutes to spare - but every now and then, getting off a stop early gives you a few extra minutes outside without having to plan anything. Ideally you pick a route with trees or at least a bit of green, but even a slightly quieter street is a step up.

Enjoy a pint in a countryside pub garden

Not all pub gardens are created equal - some have actual trees, proper greenery and maybe even a view if you’re lucky. If there’s one nearby, or somewhere just outside your usual area, it’s an easy way to spend time outdoors without pretending you’re on a wellness retreat. Same pint, better setting.

Ask to walk your neighbour’s dog

You get outside, the dog gets a walk, everyone wins. You don’t even need to commit long-term - just offer now and then and suddenly you’ve got a reason to leave the house and a new best friend. Plus, dogs are very good at making you notice things like trees, grass and basically anything that smells interesting.

Take your work call outside

If you don’t need to be on camera, there’s no reason to stay at your desk, so don’t be afraid to take that call on a walk, stand near a tree or just pace up and down a quieter street. You’re still being productive - you’re just doing it with a bit of fresh air instead of fluorescent lighting.

Stand in the sun like a lizard

If the sun’s out, make the most of it. Stand in it for a minute, sit on a bench, lean against a wall - whatever works for you. No phone, no rushing, just basking in those glorious rays in a way that is low effort and surprisingly effective. Just don’t forget your SPF.

Put your phone at the bottom of your bag

Ideally underneath a jumper or something that makes it mildly inconvenient to grab. That way, when you’re walking somewhere, you actually look around instead of defaulting to your screen. You might notice the breeze, the trees or just the fact that you’re outside - which is kind of the whole point.