News from the Noteworthy from Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society
‘Mindful Birding’: Solace in Our Hectic Lives
I recently had the privilege of attending a training session for Audubon chapter leaders, where I was introduced to the practice of “mindful birding.” This concept immediately resonated with a deep connection to the natural world I forged in my youth—a connection that ultimately laid the groundwork for my lifelong dedication to environmental education, service and advocacy.
With more than two decades in the field of environmental education, the Mindful Birding program’s core tenets struck a familiar chord. I vividly recall the multi-day field ecology programs I ran for middle- and high-school students. When reflecting on their experiences, I was consistently surprised by how often students cited “solo sits” as their favorite part of the program.
For 15-20 minutes each day, students would find their own outdoor spot, distanced but within eyeshot of others, to simply sit and reflect. They could draw, write, or just be. It was a silent activity; no talking, no phones, no tech—just paper and pencils if they felt creatively inclined. The routine of returning to “their” same spot daily often fostered a profound sense of connection.
That such a simple, unstructured activity could profoundly impact 12-18 year-olds was truly insightful. They often shared strong emotions when recounting their experiences. This revealed a significant truth: Our young people live incredibly busy lives, their schedules are packed with academic demands, after-school activities, sports and family commitments. When you factor in the staggering amount of time spent on screens daily—over 7 hours according to Global Web Index data analysts and the 2025 Global Digital Overview report—it becomes clear that quiet, unstructured time for reflection is rare.
The Mindful Birding program, sometimes called “slow birding,” served as a powerful reminder that this challenge isn’t exclusive to youth; it extends deep into our adult lives too.
“Adulting” often means juggling demanding jobs and careers, parenting, relentless financial obligations, significant life events, continuing education, health and fitness goals, daily chores, and constant exposure to news and politics. We feel harried, distressed and perpetually exhausted, rarely catching up on lost sleep. The concept of “work-life balance” is widely understood, yet often remains frustratingly out of reach.
A Mindful Birding “solo sit” offers a much-needed reprieve, providing a precious opportunity for our brains and bodies to recover from the relentless stress of modern life. The beauty of this practice lies in its accessibility and simplicity: It requires little to no specialized equipment. All you need is a relatively quiet outdoor space where you can sit comfortably, often returning to the same spot repeatedly.
As you settle in, you’ll naturally begin to observe. The world around you will gradually come alive. As nearby animals and birds become accustomed to your quiet presence, you’ll start to notice details you never did before—the rustle of leaves, the intricate patterns of a bird’s flight, the subtle shifts in light and sound. This simple act of presence fosters curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Ultimately, this newfound connection isn’t just about personal well-being; it organically leads to a greater understanding of and a renewed commitment to caring for the future of our planet.
Embracing mindful birding isn’t only about identifying species; it’s about reconnecting with yourself and the vibrant world around you. It’s a reminder that even in our busiest lives, peace and perspective can be found just outside our door, one quiet moment at a time.
Susan O’Handley has been involved with local Audubon chapters for more than 30 years and serves on the Board of Directors for the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society since 2012. Susan is the incoming chair for the Audubon NY/CT Council Board, which is composed of 27 Audubon chapters in New York State and six chapters in Connecticut, and also serves on the Advisory Board for the Audubon NY/CT Regional Office as the chapter representative.
