Nature Tonic: Mindful Life for a Year

From the Publisher: Introduction by Author Jocelyn de Kwant

In creating this book, I have developed 365 prompts to inspire a daily moment in nature. Each prompt serves as an invitation to meditate, observe, learn, or engage in an activity. This collection blends mindfulness, creativity, botanical exploration, and bushcraft skills. You can either follow the daily structure of the book, selecting a new prompt each day, or choose a few that resonate with you and revisit them as often as you like. The key is to ensure you dedicate some time each day to connect with nature.

Some prompts may encourage you to draw, but remember, the focus isn’t on artistic skill. Drawing serves as a tool to help you observe more closely; alternatively, you can choose to capture your experiences with photography instead. The practical prompts are interspersed with more extensive meditative reflections on the joy of journaling your sensory interactions with nature, the simple joys of botanical sketching, and methods for reconnecting our spirits with the earth.

Prompt 30:
Ferns are remarkable survivors, thriving in diverse environments for millions of years. The young leaves of ferns begin their journey tightly coiled, gradually unfurling into their full glory. Reflect on a time when you felt yourself starting to open up, just like the leaves.

Prompt 45:
At least once in your life, take the opportunity to sleep outside in a hammock on a summer night, or enjoy a brief evening nap before heading to bed. Allow yourself to be enveloped by the gentle sounds of the wind rustling through the leaves, letting these soothing whispers guide you into sweet dreams.

Prompt 115:
The Surya Namaskar, or sun salutation, comprises yoga poses that honor the sun. Practicing this outside is unparalleled. In the Vedic tradition, the sun represents consciousness. Approach your practice with acceptance, honoring your body’s current state without forcing anything.

Prompt 252:
Ginger is an excellent spice for warming you up on a chilly day. To prepare a soothing drink, slice and peel a piece of ginger root, about 3/4 inch (2 cm) long, and place it in a mug of boiling water. Enhance the infusion with honey and fresh lemon juice; let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes before savoring the delightful warmth it offers.

Prompt 329:
This page features herbs known for their anxiety-reducing properties. To explore their soothing effects, pour hot water over the dried leaves and flowers of these herbs: Jasmine (Jasminum), Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), and Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you drink the infusion, allowing yourself to be fully present in the experience.

By engaging with these prompts, you are encouraged to cultivate a deeper connection with nature, tapping into its wisdom and serenity. Enjoy the journey, whether you choose to explore daily or revisit particular moments, and discover the abundance of beauty that surrounds you.

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