How often do you slow down and absorb the wonder of the world around us? One fun and easy way to reconnect with our planet for sixty minutes while unleashing your artistic side is to try sketching or painting a scene of nature.

You don’t have to be an art expert. Just include a hard-bound notebook, a pencil, and a pencil sharpener in your backpack on your next walk or hike with friends or family.

When you spy a beautiful lakeside vista or an eye-catching mushroom or tree branch, just stop and start drawing! Or, sign up for an outdoor painting class and let a pro help you capture nature through watercolours or oils. You’ll be surprised how this act of creativity can deepen your relationship with nature.

Alternatively, why not check out a local nature-themed art exhibit–maybe you’ll find inspiration for your own piece!