July 10, 2023

Birds and Mindfulness

15 minutes

Birds and mindfulness is the topic of today's episode. You might remember me telling you about planting various flowers around my house and how having plants around me adds to the mindfulness in my life. Well, back in May, I made a new flower bed just for Black-Eyed Susans. Every time I look out our big window into the backyard, I see the beautiful bright yellow-orange flowers. Well this episode isn’t about flowers, it’s about birds, but they are closely related, at least in my mind.

When I got married, I discovered my new in-laws were avid bird-watchers. When my wife and I would visit my mother-in-law and sister-in-law, we’d be deep in conversation, and suddenly everyone would run to the window to see a specific kind of bird that had appeared at the bird feeder. The conversation would be immediately redirected. This was all new for me.

In the past, my wife’s aunt June would watch and count birds for certain organizations, I think, BirdLife International or Birdcount.org. I was always amazed that she knew about and could identify dozens and probably hundreds of different birds.

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The Joy From Birds

A growing body of scientific evidence also shows that the joy delivered by birds is real. Research increasingly links exposure to nature—and specifically, exposure to birds—with improved well-being. In December, a new study by the German Center for Integrative Biodiversity Research connected greater bird biodiversity to increased life-satisfaction for more than 26,000 people in 26 European countries.

It turns out the people who live near natural areas with a greater diversity of bird species were simply happier. In fact, the study found that seeing 10 percent more bird species generates satisfaction on par with a comparable increase in income.

Birds Can Do This

seeing and hearing birds can improve well-being.

Bird exposure is effective for those suffering with depression, or without.

Birds can bring longer-lasting psychological, intellectual, and social well-being.

5 Ways Noticing Birds Can Boost Mindfulness.

Heightened Awareness: Noticing birds in your surroundings encourages you to be more present and attentive to the environment. It helps you cultivate a sense of mindfulness by focusing your attention on the present moment and the natural world around you.

Deepening Observation Skills: Birdwatching requires keen observation skills, such as noticing different colors, patterns, behaviors, and sounds. Engaging in this practice sharpens your ability to observe details and enhances your overall mindfulness.

Connection to Nature: Birds are an integral part of the natural ecosystem, and observing them can deepen your connection to nature. By being aware of their presence and interactions, you develop a sense of interconnectedness with the environment, promoting a mindful and appreciative mindset.

Cultivating Curiosity: Birdwatching often sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder about the natural world. As you observe different bird species, you may find yourself seeking knowledge, researching their behaviors, habitats, and characteristics. This curiosity fosters an inquisitive and mindful mindset.

Engaging the Senses: Birdwatching stimulates multiple senses, such as sight, sound, and sometimes even touch. Paying attention to the melodies, calls, and movements of birds can create a sensory-rich experience that draws you into the present moment and cultivates mindfulness through sensory awareness.

Suggested Resources

Website: Birdlife International

Website: The Great Backyard Bird Count

Book: Bird Therapy by Joe Harkness and Chris Packham

Book: Silent Spring by Rachel Carson

App: Bird Sounds, Listen and Relax

Words of Wisdom

I suggest we allow birds to help guide us into a deeper state of presence, serenity, and connection. Notice the melodies of their songs and the graceful and almost miraculous way they effortlessly fly around above us.

Let birds be a constant reminder of the beauty and peace that surrounds us, inviting us to live fully in each moment with mindfulness and appreciation.

And remember the black-eyed Susans I planted in the backyard? Just yesterday, I looked out there and saw two yellow finches having a great time drinking nectar from the flowers, flitting around, and looking like they were in heaven. That in itself was a gift of mindfulness.

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By Bruce Langford

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