{"id":163772,"date":"2022-04-22T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-04-22T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=163772"},"modified":"2022-04-22T14:30:16","modified_gmt":"2022-04-22T21:30:16","slug":"your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature","title":{"rendered":"Your Guide for Journaling in Nature"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"cb-itemprop\" itemprop=\"reviewBody\"><p><em>Whenever I need a break from everyday life, nature never fails me. The deeper into the forest I go, the more peaceful I feel. My worries fall off of me like a heavy coat, and I can focus my attention on the present moment.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I notice the smell of fresh pine and cedar, the crunch of raw earth underneath my feet and the fresh air against my skin. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>It\u2019s a feeling I don\u2019t want to forget, and that\u2019s why I always bring my journal along with me. My journal entry isn\u2019t always a masterpiece, but I can count on it to help me feel calm, grounded and grateful.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Journaling in nature brings introspection that makes me more aware of myself and my surroundings. It helps me connect with nature and with my true self. It\u2019s a valuable practice that has the power to help us all heal and grow. <\/em>\u2013<em>Mandi Carozza, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.52hikechallenge.com\/\"><em>52 Hike Challenge<\/em><\/a><em> content creator<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Although the practice of journaling certainly isn\u2019t new, it\u2019s definitely a bit of a forgotten art. In today\u2019s digital age, we tend to use our smartphones for everything.<\/p>\n<p>But the physical act of putting pen to paper, especially while spending time outdoors, can be very calming, relaxing and rewarding. Not only can journaling help you remember all your amazing moments in nature, but it can also deepen your connection to the outdoors\u2014and to yourself.<\/p>\n<p>Keep reading to learn how journaling can benefit you on all your outdoor adventures, along with tips for getting started.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_163776\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-163776\" class=\"size-large wp-image-163776\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/image0-1.jpg?w=1024&#038;resize=1024%2C1024\" alt=\"Journaling on the Beardance Trail in Montana\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-163776\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Journaling on the Bear Dance Trail in Montana (Photo Credit: Mandi Carozza)<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Benefits of Journaling Outdoors<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Journaling is often a meditative and therapeutic practice, so you may even experience a profound shift in your mental well-being after you start writing. Combining journaling with <a href=\"\/blog\/news\/this-is-the-optimal-amount-of-time-to-spend-outside-each-week\">spending time outside<\/a> offers a unique opportunity to connect with your surroundings while processing your thoughts and emotions.<\/p>\n<p>Journaling can help you:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Improve your mood<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.urmc.rochester.edu\/encyclopedia\/content.aspx?ContentID=4552&amp;ContentTypeID=1\">Reduce stress<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Gain mental clarity<\/li>\n<li>Practice presence<\/li>\n<li>Unplug from technology<\/li>\n<li>Better understand your emotions<\/li>\n<li>Develop a deeper sense of gratitude<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/citeseerx.ist.psu.edu\/viewdoc\/download?doi=10.1.1.463.6103&amp;rep=rep1&amp;type=pdf\">Improve critical thinking and problem solving<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Boost <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/sep01\/keepdiary\">memory<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Practice mindfulness and enter a meditative state<\/li>\n<li>Enhance your appreciation for nature<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/jun02\/writing\">research<\/a>, writing may offer physical benefits to people battling illnesses and those healing injuries. One theory is that through writing, you can structure and organize anxious feelings, allowing you to get past them.<\/p>\n<p>Taking the time to sit in nature, appreciate the outdoors and write it all down can be tremendously rewarding.<\/p>\n<p><em>In August 2019, I undertook one of the grandest and most challenging adventures of my life: to hike the John Muir Trail (JMT) [N\u00fc\u00fcm\u00fc Poyo]. Coined the \u201cfinest mountain scenery in the United States\u201d by the Pacific Crest Trail Association, the JMT is a 211-mile thru-hike, mostly on the Pacific Crest Trail, stretching from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. I wanted to complete the journey in under 27 days. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>With my journal in tow, I looked forward to each evening in my tent, where I would write down thoughts, feelings, ideas and memories of each day. I knew that one day, I would want to revisit these moments and reflect on them.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u00a0<\/em><em>\u201c7:51pm Bear just came into camp. I heard a loud crack; bear was right behind my tent!\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u00a0<\/em><em>\u201cSince we had to set up in the rain, during all the commotion, Connie broke her tent pole. Thankfully, with quick thinking, we fixed it with the spare tent tube. I never knew how to use it; thankfully, she did!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Reading back on my entries, I\u2019m truly grateful I got to journal my experience. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Who knows, maybe these journal entries will inspire my future grandchildren to hike the trail one day. Oh, and about the completion, we did it in 21 days! <\/em><em>\u2013Karla Amador, co-founder of the 52 Hike Challenge<\/em><\/p>\n<h4><strong>Tips for Journaling Outdoors<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Whether you\u2019re going on an epic backpacking adventure or enjoying the natural beauty in your backyard, here\u2019s how to set yourself up for a successful journaling session:<\/p>\n<p><strong>What to bring with you:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A <a href=\"\/c\/pens\">pen<\/a> or pencil (or two)<\/li>\n<li>Paper, a <a href=\"\/search?q=journal\">notebook<\/a> or a journal<\/li>\n<li>Something to sit on: <a href=\"\/c\/trail-seats\">a comfy sit pad<\/a> or <a href=\"\/c\/camp-chairs\">lightweight backpacking chair<\/a> (optional)<\/li>\n<li>Your senses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>How to find a good journaling spot:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your journaling spot should be somewhere you feel safe and relaxed<\/li>\n<li>If you feel instantly inspired by a certain area, it\u2019s most likely a great place for you to stop and pull out your journal<\/li>\n<li>Your lunch break is also a good time and place to reflect<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>How to get in the right headspace:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Settle into your space by taking a few deep, cleansing breaths<\/li>\n<li>Close your eyes and set your intention to journal<\/li>\n<li>Invite distractions to settle into the background<\/li>\n<li>Tune in to the sensations of nature all around you<\/li>\n<li>Start writing!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It\u2019s important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to journal. Allow the words to flow and let go of any attachment to how your journal entry should be. This practice is for you, and only you.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_163777\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-163777\" class=\"size-large wp-image-163777\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/IMG_8661-1.jpg?w=1024&#038;resize=1024%2C1024\" alt=\"Journaling in Machu Picchu\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-163777\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Journaling in Machu Picchu (Photo by Karla Amador)<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Getting Started: Journal Prompts<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>If you\u2019re new to journaling or not sure what to write about, here are some prompts and exercises to help get your creativity flowing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pre-adventure journaling prompts:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How am I currently feeling?<\/li>\n<li>What would I like to gain from today\u2019s outdoor adventure?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Journaling prompts during your adventure:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How has my mood shifted since I got outdoors?<\/li>\n<li>How does being outdoors make me feel or impact me?<\/li>\n<li>Observe your surroundings and connect with your senses. Be present with what you see, feel, hear, smell, etc. For example, what is the texture of the surface you\u2019re sitting on? What colors do you see? How does the air feel today? What sounds do you hear? How does it feel to be in the moment?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Post-adventure journaling prompts:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What mental and physical challenges did I face on my adventure?<\/li>\n<li>Did I encounter any negative self-talk while on my journey? How can I practice self-love and kindness toward myself instead?<\/li>\n<li>List three insights you had while outside<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Journaling Prompts for Any Time (Home or Outdoors)<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>List three things you are grateful for today<\/li>\n<li>List three things you appreciate about yourself<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Now that you have some great prompts to work with, it\u2019s time to start journaling. Grab your pen and notebook and step out into nature. You won\u2019t regret taking the time to sit down and enjoy all of the sights, sounds and sensations of the great outdoors.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_163775\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-163775\" class=\"size-large wp-image-163775\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/DSC09261.jpg?w=1024&#038;resize=1024%2C681\" alt=\"Journaling at Canyonlands National Park\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-163775\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Journaling at Canyonlands National Park (Photo Credit: Karla Amador)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Need a new journal? <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.52hikechallenge.com\/products\/52-hike-challenge-journey-journal\">52 Hike Challenge Journey Journal<\/a>, the ultimate companion for your journaling on the trails.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><em>Editor<\/em><i><span lang=\"EN\">\u2019<\/span><\/i><em>s note: <\/em><em>REI has partnered with 52 Hike Challenge since 2015. Through this partnership, the organization receives financial sponsorship, in-kind benefits and support for events the organization hosts, among other efforts.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whenever I need a break from everyday life, nature never fails me. The deeper into the forest I go, the more peaceful I feel. My worries fall off of me like a heavy coat, and I can focus my attention on the present moment. I notice the smell of fresh pine and cedar, the crunch [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":26,"featured_media":163774,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,387,685],"tags":[758,740,1938,66],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-163772","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-camp","category-hike","category-news","tag-how-to","tag-mindfulness","tag-public-health","tag-tips"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/hike\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"Your Guide for Journaling in Nature","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/DSC05709-2020_04_16-20_38_22-UTC_hero.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/DSC05709-2020_04_16-20_38_22-UTC_hero.jpg?fit=2000%2C1000"},"articleSection":"Camp","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Michelle Flandreau"}],"creator":["Michelle Flandreau"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["how to","mindfulness","public health","tips"],"dateCreated":"2022-04-22T21:00:00Z","datePublished":"2022-04-22T21:00:00Z","dateModified":"2022-04-22T21:30:16Z"},"rendered":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"wp-parsely-metadata\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"headline\":\"Your Guide for Journaling in Nature\",\"url\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/your-guide-for-journaling-in-nature\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2020\\\/10\\\/DSC05709-2020_04_16-20_38_22-UTC_hero.jpg?resize=150%2C150\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2020\\\/10\\\/DSC05709-2020_04_16-20_38_22-UTC_hero.jpg?fit=2000%2C1000\"},\"articleSection\":\"Camp\",\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Michelle Flandreau\"}],\"creator\":[\"Michelle Flandreau\"],\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Uncommon Path \\u2013 An REI Co-op Publication\",\"logo\":\"\"},\"keywords\":[\"how to\",\"mindfulness\",\"public health\",\"tips\"],\"dateCreated\":\"2022-04-22T21:00:00Z\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-04-22T21:00:00Z\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-04-22T21:30:16Z\"}<\/script>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/rei.com\/p.js"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2020\/10\/DSC05709-2020_04_16-20_38_22-UTC_hero.jpg?fit=2000%2C1000","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/163772","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/26"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=163772"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/163772\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":177649,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/163772\/revisions\/177649"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/163774"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=163772"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=163772"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=163772"},{"taxonomy":"internal-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal-tag?post=163772"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}