The Earth is alive, constantly moving, breathing, and changing. And when you engage with it, you become part of that rhythm. Whether it’s the warmth of the sun on your skin, a cool breeze, or the smell of fresh rain, each moment spent outside deepens your connection with the world.

One of the most transformative steps toward becoming an EarthEnjoyer is simply to go outside. It might seem straightforward, but actively engaging with nature is foundational to deepening your connection with the Earth. Let me share why this matters and offer some personal experiences that have helped me along the way.

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Why being outside matters

Nature isn’t just something to admire from a distance; it’s where we’re meant to be. Our bodies evolved to live outdoors, under the sun, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and sensations of the Earth. But in our modern world, many of us spend most of our time indoors, cut off from the very environment that supports our well-being.

Studies show that regular exposure to nature improves mood, boosts immune function, and reduces stress. You can read on Huberman Lab how sunlight in particular helps regulate our circadian rhythm, which affects everything from sleep quality to energy levels.

Tune your biological clock

One of the best habits you can develop is getting outside early in the day. Not only does this help you soak up some natural light, but it also sets your biological clock, helping you feel more awake during the day and sleep better at night. Just 10–15 minutes of sunlight exposure in the morning can have a powerful effect on your mood and energy levels.

Here’s a pro tip:

Take your breakfast or morning coffee outside if you can. Find a comfortable spot where you can sit, breathe, and take in your surroundings. Even in an urban environment, you can still benefit from the light and fresh air. Sit for a while and let the sunlight wake up your body. This small habit can make a big difference in how you feel during the day.

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Make time for more outdoor experiences

I recommend aiming for at least 1-2 hours outdoors each day if possible. Ideally, you’d spend the majority of your waking hours outside, but I understand that for most people, this isn’t realistic. Work, school, and daily responsibilities often keep us indoors. But there are ways to incorporate more time outside into your routine if you get creative.

For example, I go to school about 10 kilometers from where I live, and after I’m done for the day, I almost always walk home. It takes me around two hours, but I’ve found this time to be invaluable. It gives me an opportunity to unwind, reflect, and take in both the city and the bits of nature along my route. The walk has become a small adventure of sorts. The combination of sights, sounds, and sensations allows me to truly connect with my surroundings.

If you’re short on time, consider how you might add a bit more outdoor time into your day. You could walk or bike to work if the distance allows, have lunch outside, or simply take a longer route home.

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Connect with the elements

Engaging with the natural elements: earth, air, water, helps deepen your connection to the world around you. These elements are part of us, and spending time with them reminds us of our place in nature.

• Touch the Earth: Sit on the grass or tough a tree if possible. It’s a simple way to feel more grounded and connected to the Earth.
• Breathe in fresh air: Take deep breaths when you’re outside, especially in green spaces. Fresh air helps clear the mind and refresh the body. If there is no fresh air where you live, go outside nevertheless, and retreat to a location with better air quality as often as you can.
• Spend time near water: Water has a calming effect that can help you feel more connected to the flow of nature. Whether it’s the ocean, a lake, or even a small stream, spending time near water is a great way to unwind.

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Walk and explore

Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to engage with nature. You don’t need to plan a big adventure to feel the benefits of being outdoors. A short walk in your neighborhood, through a local park, or even just around your yard can help you reconnect with the world around you.

I’ll admit, I used to be the person who walked with headphones blasting music when walking outside. I didn’t use to think much about it, but I started noticing how disconnected I felt from the environment around me. Lately, I’ve been going out without them and I’ve found that it makes a big difference. Don’t get me wrong, music has its place, but I found that literally tuning into the natural world helps me feel more grounded. It might be worth trying on your next walk.

These small details make a big difference when you’re trying to deepen your connection with the Earth. The key is consistency. Make it a daily ritual, something you do to unwind or start your day. Most of the time there’s no need to rush, so allow yourself to walk at a pace that feels comfortable and let yourself enjoy the simple act of being outside.

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Forest bathing

As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve been inspired by concepts like Zen amongst other Japanese philosophies. I might be a bit obsessed with them if I’m honest, but many of them really resonate with me. 

Think of spending time outdoors as a kind of shinrin-yoku. It doesn’t have to be complicated or strenuous, and you don’t need to go far. The important thing is to give yourself the opportunity to absorb the quiet energy nature offers. Like the trees in a forest, we need time in the sun and fresh air to grow and feel our best. So, even if you can’t get out into deep forests every day, try to carve out a bit of time to let nature restore you, no matter where you are.

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Practical tips for immersing yourself in nature

1. Go outside every day: Even just 15 minutes can make a difference. If you can, start your day with a bit of sunlight and fresh air.
2. Find a spot you enjoy: Whether it’s a park, a trail, or your backyard, having a place where you feel comfortable being outside can help you make it a daily habit.
3. Try different activities: Whether it’s walking, biking, swimming, or something else, find what feels enjoyable to you. The key is consistency, not perfection.
4. Explore new areas: If you can, try walking in different places. A park, a nearby forest, or a quiet street you haven’t been to before can offer new experiences and keep things interesting.
5. Be present: When you’re outside, take a moment to pause and notice what’s around you—the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature.

The most important part of this step is simply to start. You don’t need to have it all figured out, and there’s no right or wrong way to engage with nature. The more time you spend outside, the more natural it will feel. Over time, you’ll find that these small moments outdoors can lead to a deeper appreciation and connection with the Earth. And if you’re worried about overexposure to the sun, just remember to protect your skin with sunscreen or a hat. Balance, as always, is key.

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Finding your rhythm with nature

These steps are meant to guide you toward becoming more connected with the Earth, but it’s important to remember that it’s a journey. If you’re not already an avid Earth enthusiast, I recommend starting small. Don’t try to make sweeping changes overnight. Take it one step at a time, whether that means going outside for just 10 minutes a day, leaving your phone behind on a walk, or finding a spot where you can simply sit and observe.

Allow yourself to feel the changes gradually. Notice how spending time in nature affects your mood, energy, and sense of well-being. Remember, this journey is yours, and you’re free to explore it at your own pace. Take time to appreciate the small moments, and let the process unfold naturally.

This has been Step 3 of How to Enjoy the Earth: A Comprehensive Guide. Feel free to bookmark or save this step as a reminder of your progress. Since this guide is designed to be a gradual journey, keeping track helps you continue at your own pace whenever you’re ready.

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