Birding is many things to many people, and you never know when the bluebird of happiness will land nearby (Mountain Bluebird photo by Paul Konrad).

In addition to getting outdoors for a fresh level of activity and getting a little exercise in the process, engaging with nature and the simple act of birding can be a powerful pathway to improving your personal well-being. Birding offers a chance to clear your mind, walk at your own pace, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world. A search for birds always seems to help redirect your thoughts as you walk among trees or along the edge of a waterway. Spending time in nature, observing the behavior of birds, and simply visiting green spaces can have a profoundly positive impact on our mental health too – in the moment and overall.

Researchers consistently demonstrate the link between exposures to nature and improved personal well-being. Studies show that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress hormones, alleviate anxiety and depression, improve focus and attention, and of course, increase a person’s physical activity. Whether you are a seasoned birder or simply looking for a way to soothe your mind, consider stepping outside and tuning in to the natural world. Bring a pair of binoculars or simply use your senses to observe, hear, and absorb elements of nature. Listen for bird songs, watch for the flights and movements of birds, and breathe the fresh air deeply.

Birding is many things, but it’s a personal activity; it can be fun, engaging, restful, rewarding, liberating, and there is always the potential for a bit of excitement mixed in when you least expect it. Birding takes the inherent benefits of nature and adds a layer of focused engagement. Birding encourages us to:

Practice Mindfulness: To spot a bird, you need to be present in the moment, paying attention to subtle movements, sounds, and colors. This mindful observation can help quiet the internal chatter of anxious thoughts. It also helps you to “be in the moment.”

Cultivate Patience: Birding often requires patience as you wait for a glimpse of a wary or elusive species. This practice can translate to greater patience in other areas of life and it has a calming effect on us all.

Foster a Sense of Wonder and Curiosity: Observing a new bird species or witnessing fascinating avian behavior sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder, counteracting feelings of apathy or disengagement.

Connect with a Community: Birding groups and Audubon chapters offer a variety of opportunities to connect with fellow bird enthusiasts through birding walks, meetings, birding classes, and volunteer activities, which fosters a sense of belonging and shared interests.

Enjoy the Process: Finding and identifying a new bird can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. Seeing a new bird can also provide a jolt of excitement, which is also an important part of birding and life experiences, and it produces a story you can share with others.

Birding can create moments of peace and tranquility, or fun and excitement; it can get you outdoors to breathe fresh air and clear your mind, providing a quality break during work, family obligations, the daily news cycle, or in the midst of the what can be the hustle and bustle of modern life. So take a deep breath, step outside, and let the wings of birds guide you to a calmer, more grounded you.

This article was inspired by a message provided by Jesi Malowitz. The Birding Wire staff added some of their own thoughts about how birding is beneficial for them, and for others they know, but Jesi created the outline and most of the content for this article: Thanks Jesi!