By Jesi Malowitz, Development Manager, Individual Giving, Houston Audubon
Standing at Platform A at the Smith Oaks Rookery on Bolivar Peninsula, I fix my binoculars on a Roseate Spoonbill clumsily landing on a nest over Claybottom Pond. In its bill is a carefully chosen stick to add to its nest. As the spoonbill searches for the perfect spot to place the stick to make the nest sturdier, more comfortable, or more attractive, its mate watches over him, interested in his every move. The mate stretches out and flaps her wings a bit: is this her way of showing approval? Maybe, maybe not. Our bright pink home-builder examines the placement of the stick and decides to move it to a different spot. The commotion on the rookery with the loud squawking from thousands of nesting birds-and let’s not forget the attractive gargling sounds of the Snowy Egrets-probably makes his endeavors a bit more stressful. Still, he perseveres and his lovely mate settles in to rest.
Am I over-anthropomorphizing these creatures? Probably. But watching this rosy couple has offered me a chance to tune out all the noise in my own head-something that we all know is becoming increasingly difficult. As I lower my binoculars and reach for my phone to record the 2 spoonbills on eBird, I stop myself and just take it in.
In our fast-paced, digitally driven world, it’s easy to feel disconnected – from ourselves, from each other, and from the natural world that sustains us. The constant demands and pressures of modern life can take a toll on our mental well-being, leaving us feeling stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed. Some of us (myself included) require a bit of extra help from medical professionals in the form of medication and therapy to overcome these pressures. But amidst the urban landscape of Houston, a powerful and readily accessible antidote exists: nature, and specifically, the mindful practice of birding.
Houston Audubon has long championed the conservation of birds and their habitats, but the benefits of engaging with the avian world extend far beyond ecological preservation. Spending time in nature, observing the intricate lives of birds, and simply being present in green spaces can have a profound positive impact on our mental health.
Research consistently demonstrates the link between nature exposure and improved mental well-being. Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress hormones, alleviate anxiety and depression, improve focus and attention, and of course, increase one’s physical activity.
Birding takes these inherent benefits of nature and adds a layer of focused engagement. It 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.
- Cultivate Patience: Birding often requires patience as you wait for a glimpse of a shy or elusive species. This practice can translate to greater patience in other areas of life.
- Foster a Sense of Wonder and Curiosity: Discovering a new bird species or observing fascinating avian behavior sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder, counteracting feelings of apathy or disengagement.
- Connect with a Community: Houston Audubon offers numerous opportunities to connect with fellow bird enthusiasts through walks, birding classes, and volunteer activities, fostering a sense of belonging and shared passion.
- Set Achievable Goals: Identifying a new bird can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.
Houston boasts a remarkable array of green spaces, from the sprawling urban oasis of Memorial Park to Houston Audubon’s coastal havens of the Bolivar Peninsula. These diverse habitats provide ample opportunities to connect with nature and discover the vibrant birdlife that calls our region home.
Whether you’re 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 if you have them, or simply use your senses to observe the life around you. Listen for the melodic songs, watch for the flitting movements, and breathe in the fresh air.
Engaging with nature and the simple act of birding can be a powerful pathway to improved mental well-being. It offers a chance to slow down, reconnect with ourselves and the natural world, and find moments of peace and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. So, take a breath, step outside, and let the wings of the birds guide you towards a calmer, more grounded you. Houston Audubon is here to help you on that journey.
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