Mindfulness Activity: Water Droplet Hunting

Mar 11

A common theme we see through our experiences at Compassionate Roots is the escalating presence of stress, anxiety, and depression among clients. And while there are many modalities we use to work through each individual’s treatment plan, one recommended practice we love and see success with is mindfulness.

Mindfulness refers to a way of being that involves an intentional awareness of the present moment.

With mindfulness, you are actively aware of what is going on in your mind, body, and environment without labeling anything as good or bad.

Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can support the management of stress, improve anxiety and depression, improve your quality of sleep, and so much more.

Below, I’m sharing one of my favorite mindfulness activities you can do on your own.

The activity is simple:

After a fresh rain shower or watering, begin looking at each leaf/flower for a "water globe." Water globes are tiny water droplets that will reflect like glass and emphasize the beauty of the leaf/flower.

While searching, focus on the sound of the breeze and any chirping birds you can hear. Take notice of which leaves hold water droplets the best and challenge yourself to find that "perfect globe." Find ways to engage your hands with nature, such as touching leaves or potentially touching the water globe in a delicate manner and observe how it moves. Make sure to take a deep breath and enjoy the fresh smell of rain.

Why is this a powerful mindfulness activity?

This activity is so simple yet immersive. It engages all senses, grounds the seeker to the present, and offers a calming and rewarding effect on the mind during the process.

Many people with an anxious mind report a desire to practice mindfulness but feel more anxious if they engage in deep breathing or visual imagery.

If that includes you, this mindfulness experience with the help of nature might be just what you need. Your senses will become fully engaged throughout the activity, which will naturally regulate your breathing.

Research shows the brain experiences a calming effect when in nature and locating the perfect water globe will ground your mind to the present and calm the nervous system.