Engaging in our natural environment with curiosity and wonder, like we did when we were young children, enhances our experience and generates a genuine connection with the places we visit.
Curiosity Drives Observation– Being observant and curious makes us slow down and take careful note of the environments we are exploring. A simple example of this is looking closely at a rock platform on our coastline. Observing it closely, a curious person may start to recognise patterns and ask why the rocks are angled or shaped in particular ways, or why there is a line of seaweed or shells at a point on the rocks.
This curiosity leads to a greater appreciation for the environment and greater stewardship of these special places.
Wonder creates emotional connection– Wonder is the feeling that something is amazing, surprising, or bigger than you. This emotional response is important in outdoor activities because people protect what they feel connected to, experiences become memorable and nature is seen as meaningful and not just something to travel through.
This is often felt when looking at a beautiful sunset, looking out from a vantage point or lookout or watching majestic wildlife like whales or dolphins. They can stop us and make us feel like a small part of something much bigger than us.
