Is walking in nature a kind of sound healing?
I think so.
I used to walk with headphones on, as an opportunity to listen to favourite music or a podcast.
But then something changed. I decided I need to connect more with the nature around me instead of cutting myself off with more technology. I went for an early morning walk one day and found myself drawn to the parts of the woodland near me where the birds were hanging out. And I listened. Really listened.
And what I heard was transformational. It was a profoundly somatic experience.
The colour of the sky was mesmerising on a walk in Shuttleworth a few weeks ago
All The Feels
Full sensory immersion — proprioception (body in space), neuroception (spidey senses), interoception (body signals), sight, sound, smell, touch, taste — was really moving.
If you spend time in nature fully present and just notice everything that is going on around and within you, it’s absolutely magical. This is what somatic experiencing is about, with and in nature, of which we are a part, after all.
So yes, walking in nature is sound healing. Because sound healing — for me — is a full sensory experience. Not only am I listening with my ears, I am feeling the vibrations in my body.
This is a profound experience that transforms a simple walk into an opportunity for deep healing in a natural environment.
The Science
Walking in nature is accompanied by a rich tapestry of natural textures:
Sounds; rustling leaves, flowing water, birdsong
Scents; loam, earth, petricor (the smell of rain falling on dry ground), wild garlic
Taste: wild fruits like blackberries
Touch: squelchy mud underfoot, rough bark of trees, softness of a fallen feather
Sights: a beautiful view, greens, golds, blues, pinks, reds of leaves, lichens, bark
Proprioception: feeling myself centred in the space, part of nature
Interoception: my heart beat, breath, emotions of contentment and happiness
Neuroception: signals of safety from being in a natural environment
This can all profoundly affect mind and body.
Research indicates that the sounds, smells etc produced in natural environments can lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. These organic textural notes speak to the nervous system, allowing for a decompression and moment to ground and connect in the present moment. This immersive multi-sensory experience, and in particular the sounds of nature, assist in emotional regulation and encourage a state of mindfulness.
The rhythm of walking itself is also therapeutic. Walking is a form of bilateral stimulation, aiding in processing emotions and difficult thoughts by bridging the right and left hemispheres of the brain. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve gone on a walk feeling agitated with a problem or situation and finding solutions and peace while I’m out.
There’s also just a deep connection to our natural state as we move through natural settings. We evolved attuned to the environment, reading the signs of weather and seasons, making remedies from herbs, living harmoniously. The combination of bodily movement and sound can recreate this symbiotic effect, fostering a deeper connection to both the internal self and the external environment.
So I’d say, walking in nature not only serves as a physical activity but also embodies elements of sound healing, promoting overall wellbeing and facilitating the healing process within the mind and body.
How to Make Walking in Nature Special
Here’s my little guide to making your nature walk more than just a physical activity, to bring a bit of ritual magic to play. Do all the elements or pick and choose what works for you. I always encourage agency over your choices.
Most importantly, be safe. And you may not always have time to do this immersive somatic practice. But perhaps once a week you can make your walk a truly beautiful experience.
Choose the Right Location: Select a nature spot that resonates with you, whether it's a local park, forest, or countryside. Try to find a place that offers beautiful scenery or a water feature like a river, lake or pond, notice the plants and animals that live there.
Mindful Preparation: Before you set out, take a few moments to ground yourself. Consider your intentions for the walk—whether it's to relax, reflect, or connect with nature on a deeper level.
Engage Your Senses: As you walk, focus on what you can see, hear, smell, and feel. Listen to the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the sounds of your own footsteps. Breathe in the fresh air and notice the scents of earth and plants around you.
Disconnect from Devices: Leave your phone on silent. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the experience without distractions, appreciating the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush your walk. Pace yourself to allow for pauses and reflection. Spend time in areas that catch your eye or where you feel drawn to sit for a moment.
Nature-Based Reflection: Bring a journal or sketchbook along. After a period of walking, take some time to write down your thoughts, sketch or photograph what moves you. This adds a personal touch to your experience.
Mindful Movement: Incorporate gentle movements or stretches during your walk, connecting your body with the environment. For example, a few deep stretches under or while touching a tree can enhance your sense of connection to nature.
Seasonal Awareness: Pay attention to the season’s unique beauty. Spring blossoms, summer lushness, autumn colours, and winter’s starkness each offer different experiences and feelings.
Connect with Others: If you prefer companionship, invite a friend or family member to join you. Sharing the experience can deepen your connection to nature and create shared memories.
End with Gratitude: When you’ve finished your walk, take a moment to express gratitude for the experience. Reflect on what you've seen, felt, and thought, acknowledging the healing power of nature.
Making walking in nature special is about fully immersing yourself in the experience, allowing it to nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
To work with me one to one or as part of one of my groups, drop me an email at claire@harmonyhealingservices.co.uk
I bring in all of my training and somatic practices into my group and individual work. Go check out the rest of the site for more information on what I do. You might like to start here on my about page.
