Finding Inspiration in Nature

As the world begins to thaw and the days grow longer, there’s no denying the sense of hope and renewal that comes with the arrival of spring. The landscape around us is transformed as buds burst into bloom, birdsong fills the air, and the natural world comes alive once again. It’s a time of year that can be incredibly inspiring — and one that offers many lessons for those who are willing to look.

I’ve long been inspired by nature, and I believe that there is much to be learned from the natural world. Spending time in nature can be a powerful source of inspiration and hope! Whether we’re exploring a local park, hiking in the mountains, or simply sitting in our own backyards, connecting with nature can help us to feel more grounded, centered, and alive.

One of the most important lessons that nature teaches us is resilience. Despite the harshness of winter, plants and animals are able to bounce back and thrive in the spring. Trees that appeared to be dead come back to life with new growth, and flowers that were buried under the snow burst forth in a riot of color. In MERLIN: The Lost Years, I explored this theme of resilience through Emrys, a young wizard who learns to find hope even in the darkest of times.

Another lesson that nature teaches us is the importance of interconnectedness. Every living thing is part of a larger ecosystem, and each depends on the others for its survival. When we spend time in nature, we begin to see how everything is connected, and how even the smallest actions can have a ripple effect. In my book, The Ancient One, I explored this theme through the character of Kate, who discovers the interconnectedness of all things as she embarks on a journey to save an ancient tree from destruction.

How I Find Inspiration in Nature

So how can we connect with nature in our own lives, and find inspiration and hope in the natural world? Here are a few tips to get started:

Take a walk in a local park or nature reserve

Spend time outside, just walking and observing the world around you. Even if you live in a city, chances are that there is a park or nature reserve nearby where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Take a few hours to explore the trails, listen to the birds, and soak in the beauty of the natural world.

Start a garden

Growing something from a seed to a fully grown, living plant is a wonderful way to connect with nature. If you don’t have a lot of space, you can still start a small garden in your backyard or on your balcony. Plant some herbs, vegetables, or flowers, and watch as they grow and thrive over time.

Observe the changing seasons

Take note of the changes that happen throughout the year, from the first buds of spring to the colorful leaves of autumn. By observing the natural world, we can begin to see the patterns and rhythms that underlie everything around us.

Practice mindfulness

When we’re in nature, it can be easy to get caught up in our thoughts and worries. To truly connect with the natural world, it’s important to be present in the moment and observe everything around us with an open mind and heart.

Get involved in conservation efforts

If you’re passionate about protecting the natural world, consider getting involved in local conservation efforts. Whether it’s volunteering at a local nature reserve, supporting environmental organizations, or advocating for policy change, there are many ways to make a difference.

Tell a story 

One of the most powerful ways to connect with nature is through storytelling. Humans have been telling stories about the natural world for millennia, and these stories have helped us to understand our place in the world and our relationship to the environment.

One of the things that I love about storytelling is that it allows us to see the world from different perspectives. When we hear stories about the natural world, we begin to see the world through the eyes of animals, plants, and other living things. We begin to understand the interconnectedness of all things and how we are all part of a larger ecosystem.

Take it to the next level

Of course, there are many other ways to connect with nature and find hope and inspiration in the natural world. One of my personal favorites is to spend time in the mountains. As a young man, I spent many summers working as a climbing ranger in the Rocky Mountains, and I have always been drawn to the rugged beauty and majesty of the high peaks.

For me, the mountains are a place of both challenge and inspiration. Climbing to the top of a peak requires focus, determination, and a willingness to push past our limits. But when we reach the summit, we are rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that can be truly life-changing.

Ultimately, connecting with nature is about more than just finding inspiration and hope. It’s about recognizing our place in the world and our responsibility to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. As we face increasing environmental challenges, from climate change to habitat destruction, it’s more important than ever to connect with the natural world and work to protect it.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or disheartened, I encourage you to take some time to connect with nature in your own way. Whether it’s through storytelling, hiking in the mountains, or simply sitting in your backyard, the natural world has much to teach us about resilience, interconnectedness, and the power of hope.