What is nature journaling?

We like Alex Boon’s definition: “Nature journaling is the act of creatively recording your relationship with nature.”

 

Nature journaling is like keeping a diary of your outdoor adventures. It’s all about going out into nature and paying close attention to what’s around you. You record your observations, feelings, and thoughts in a journal or sketchbook. You can draw pictures or take photos or record sounds to go along with your notes.

​

The best part is that there are no rules! You don't have to be an artist or a scientist to do it. It’s just about having fun, being curious, and connecting with nature. Plus, it helps you learn more about the plants and animals you encounter.

 

​One could say that as nature journalers we are citizen scientists — we observe, draw, make diagrams, measure, count, exchange ideas and much more. How you design your own journal is entirely up to you; the main thing is that you are outside in nature and having a good time. 

​

Do I have to be good at drawing?

No! But that said, anyone can learn to draw if they want to. Drawing has nothing to do with talent, it’s just a matter of practice! Like any skill, drawing improves with time and effort.

​

Nature journaling is not about making “art”, but rather about learning and connecting with the world. Over time your own drawings will also become more ”beautiful”, but that’s not the focus of nature journaling.

​

We hope you will join us outside!