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.