Ep 65 Mindful in Nature with Belinda McCawley

Hello and welcome to the Thriving podcast with Sarah and Jenny. On this week's episode, we delve into the fascinating world of nature-based wellness with our lovely guest, Belinda McCawley, founder of Mindful in Nature. We explore topics that are particularly close to our hearts as advocates for workplace well-being and the power of nature as a therapeutic tool...

Key points discussed in this episode:

1. Belinda shares her journey from experiencing the calming effects of nature in her teenage years to developing a deep professional and personal interest in environmental science, eventually leading to the creation of Mindful in Nature. She shares how her life experiences shaped her approach to well-being, particularly during a stressful period where she leaned heavily on mindfulness as a coping mechanism.
2. Belinda introduces us to Forest Therapy, a practice that involves taking mindful walks through the forest or any natural environment. The therapeutic benefits come from engaging all the senses and connecting with the natural world. This practice is backed by scientific research highlighting the physiological benefits of spending time in nature.
3. We discuss the importance of practicing mindfulness consistently and how it can transform one's lifestyle. Belinda shares how she integrates mindfulness in her daily routine and highlights the difference between 'doing' and 'being', emphasizing the importance of just 'being' in nature.
4. An interesting story from Belinda's sit-spot practice demonstrates how mindfulness can shift our perspective and help us connect with nature on a deeper level. This story emphasizes the transformative power of seeing the world from a non-human perspective, thereby increasing empathy and awareness.
5. Lastly, we discuss the importance of reestablishing our connection with the natural world, especially considering our integral part in the ecosystem. Belinda shares her thoughts on introducing young children to mindfulness and the potential of integrating mindfulness into outdoor activities.
   
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