Natural Explorer

Natural Explorer

I am happy to introduce our studio project for this year, Natural Explorer. It's a practice that I've found helpful for my own creative practice, and developed it into a simple process that anyone can do.

Finding a New Practice

I started the year feeling like I needed to get back to basics and find my footing again. As someone who's always loved traveling and dreamed of faraway adventures, I was surprised to find myself craving connection to my local landscape. Maybe it was an unexpected form of nesting, but I listened to my instincts. I made an intention to make regular explorations in my local nature, experience it mindfully, and document it through my sketchbooks.

Explorer sketchbook drawing of nature art inspired by Joshua Tree rocks artist drawing pencils and cameraI really started enjoying this practice, and it helped me find a new creative rhythm. I thought about how the benefits of nature, mindfulness, and creativity have so much in common. For a more informed understanding of this, I listened to some very interesting books, including The Nature Fix by Florence Williams. It really inspired me to share my own practice with others, because these are such simple, affordable ways we can all improve our wellbeing.

Benefits of Nature, Mindfulness, and Creative Practice

Research has shown that:

  • Nature reduces stress and boosts mental health. A study from the University of Exeter found that people who spend at least two hours a week in nature report significantly better well-being and health compared to those who don’t. (Source: Scientific Reports, 2019)
  • Being outdoors enhances creativity and problem-solving.  Research shows that walking in nature can increase creative output by up to 60%, as the mental relaxation and reduced sensory demands of natural settings allow the mind to wander and generate novel ideas. (Source: The Guardian, 2024)
  • Mindfulness increases focus and emotional resilience. A Harvard study showed that mindfulness meditation can physically change the brain, increasing gray matter density in areas associated with learning, memory, and emotional regulation. (Source: Harvard Gazette, 2011)

Even dedicating just one day a week to these practices can make a meaningful difference. But knowing isn’t always enough—it can be hard to break free from routines and actually make time for these things. That’s why I wanted to create something simple, beautiful, and, most importantly—fun.

an explorer's sketchbook journal invitation to adventure

A Simple Practice

Natural Explorer is an invitation to reconnect with nature, creativity, and a sense of adventure—starting exactly where you are. It’s a class, a practice, and a way of seeing the world differently. Through guided prompts, simple explorations, and creative exercises, it helps bring together the practices of mindfulness, creativity, and nature in a way that feels effortless and joyful.

I explain each step in more detail in our latest class, but the basic idea is simple: 

  1. Explore: Make an intention to explore your local nature, whatever piques your interest. I can be a wooded hike, a city park, or even just your backyard garden. Tip: I do personally find that getting to know your native plants can help you feel more grounded and connected to your environment.
  2. Observe: Practice the skill of mindfulness during your explorations. Stay present, open your awareness, and really notice your experience.
  3. Reflect: In our age of distraction, treat yourself to time for self-reflection and learn to really listen to yourself in a caring way. This also helps you understand what you are inspired by and drawn to.
  4. Create: Write and draw about your experience in any way that feels expressive or good to you. It can be as simple or advanced as you'd like it to be. Build a healthy habit and enjoy! 
Mimochai Studio Explorer Books Inspiration artwork for nature and exploration

Sharing My Process

I hope you'll give this practice a chance, and see how you feel after your own adventures! I’ll be sharing my own reflections in our monthly studio letters and in Mimochai Studio

Happy exploring 💛 -M

June 2025 Update: Snippets of my practice lately 💛

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