‘Sometimes, a simple lunchtime walk becomes something more.‘
During a particularly difficult period in my career, I found myself pulled toward green spaces in search of a reset. These solo escapes, sometimes just 20 minutes long became something like medicine. A picnic bench under a tree. A quiet trail just past the last row of houses. A patch of forest where you could feel the day exhale.
What started as a breath of fresh air turned into a quiet ritual. I began to spend longer in these outdoor pockets of calm, and on some days, even joined video meetings from woodland clearings or grassy meadows. To my surprise, the people on the other end of the call noticed too the sense of calm, the stillness. It became something I shared, not just something I needed.
I also brought a sense of curiosity to these micro adventures. Using the Merlin Bird ID app to learn birdsong, or plant ID apps to explore what was growing around me, gave these moments texture and meaning. It wasn’t about covering ground it was about noticing the ground beneath me.
These mindful moments reminded me:
- That we don’t always need big plans to feel grounded
- That nature, even in small doses, can be powerful
- That connection can be found just a few steps outside the usual routine
3 Ways to Find a Mindful Moment Near Work
1. Go solo and slow. Take 15–30 minutes to explore nearby green space without a goal. Walk slowly, notice your breath, your senses, and your surroundings.
2. Pack a picnic (even if it’s small). A sandwich on a shaded bench can feel like a full reset. Eating slowly, in fresh air, helps you reconnect with your body and the moment.
3. Let curiosity guide you. Try an app like Merlin or Seek to explore the natural world around you. Notice the birds, plants, textures, and weather patterns you often miss.
Final Thought
You don’t have to go far to go deep. Whether it’s a patch of trees near the office or a meadow tucked behind a housing estate, these small moments can shift your perspective and your day.
If you’ve found your own micro escapes near work, we’d love to hear them.
Mindful Trails 