“To meditate is to pay full attention to something.”

-Thich Nhat Hanh

There’s been a lot of publicity around meditation and mindfulness, even before the pandemic but certainly during the last year and a half. The market is flooded with meditation products, whether it’s books, guided meditation apps, or various trinkets to support the pursuit of calm.

“Meditation” or “mindfulness” can conjure up different meanings or images depending on the person. Perhaps most prevalent is the image of sitting alone on the floor, fully upright, and focusing on breathing.

I personally have practiced breathing meditation (although I’m usually on the sofa, slouched), and I find it useful for stressful days. But I can also find it exceptionally difficult. I’m an active person, as in, I don’t sit still very well. If I’m sitting down, I’m wiggling my legs. If I’m standing, I’m bouncing in place. Stillness and breathing is an excellent option for me at times, but it is by no means the only way to achieve calm and presence.

Unbeknownst to me until recently, I’ve been practicing meditation for years unintentionally. As you’ve probably guessed, it’s through birding! I like Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh’s approach to meditation, which is to be fully present and engaged in whatever activity you are doing. If your thoughts wander, then you gently bring your attention back to the activity at hand. This could be while breathing, walking, gardening, driving, brushing your teeth, eating, basically everything. And of course, that includes birding.

Birding is a perfect meditation activity. I’ve personally gone into states of hyperfocus as I listen for calls, songs, or rustling leaves. I’m tuned in to every slight movement in the air, trees, ground, roofs, or bushes. I’m laser-focused, in the moment, and wholly engaged with all my senses, and anxious thoughts no longer pelt my mind. This is presence, meditation, and promoting a deeper connection and appreciation of nature.

If you want to meditate and haven’t found the right activity, try thinking of your birding as a natural activity for this effort. Doing it for 5-10 minutes each day can do wonders!