This Earth Hour, we’re asking Australians to take #TimeOutForNature and appreciate the beauty of our environment and all it does for us.

Nature provides us with so many incredible benefits. From roaring oceans to peaceful rainforests, every ecosystem plays an essential role in maintaining balance on our planet.

Sadly, human impact and climate change are degrading our environment at a startling pace. If we want to secure a healthy future for our world, we need to reflect on what we have lost and take action to restore nature.

So this Earth Hour, take the opportunity to be mindful. There’s no action too simple - whether it’s 60 seconds, 60 minutes or beyond the hour - to immerse yourself in nature this Earth Hour. Plus, by signing up for Earth Hour, you’ll go in the running to win a dream wilderness escape for two with Tasmanian Walking Company!

To help get you inspired, here are some of the ways we’ll be taking #TimeOutForNature.

1. Yoga

If you’re on the lookout for a new hobby that’s good for mind, body and soul, give yoga in nature a try. Yoga has many health benefits, from improving flexibility and strength to reducing stress and improving sleep quality. Practising yoga outdoors will also help build a sense of calmness and connection to your environment, making it the perfect way to switch off and take #TimeOutForNature.

2. Meditation

Meditation can help improve all areas of life - your mental health, ability to concentrate and even your physical well-being. Meditating involves focusing the mind on the present moment, and practising in nature makes it all the more effective. Head down to your local beach or forest and sink in the sounds of nature as you switch off. Need some inspiration? Click this link for a 60-second meditation guide to help get you started!

3. Bushwalking

Whether it’s a stroll in your local national park or an overnight hike, bushwalking benefits your health in more ways than one! Physically, bushwalking is what you make it. Be it a low-impact stroll to stretch your legs or an exhilarating thrill to get your blood pumping, choose your bushwalk to suit your needs. Mentally, it’s the perfect way to de-stress and switch off. To help you take time out for nature, we’ve teamed up with Tasmanian Walking Company to give you the chance to win a dream wilderness escape for two! All you need to do is sign up for Earth Hour, and you’ll go in the running for a luxury walking holiday on the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk.

4. Get to know your local plants

While out on your bushwalk, try seeing if you can identify some of our native plants and wildlife! Australia is home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, and you’ll be able to spot plenty if you know what to look for. Familiarise yourself with the sights, sounds and smells to look out for in this video guide.

5. Tune out with some Slow TV

Did you know you can take #TimeOutForNature in your bedroom? Ever heard of Slow TV? It’s designed to be an accessible, calming method to reduce stress and practise mindfulness. By observing nature in a slow and deliberate way, you’ll find yourself appreciating the beauty of Australia’s landscapes in a whole new way, making it the perfect way to switch off this Earth Hour.

6. Plant a native tree

Taking #TimeOutForNature doesn’t have to mean leaving the city. One of the easiest ways to benefit yourself and nature is by planting a native tree in your backyard or on your balcony. Planting native trees will provide habitat and food for wildlife of all shapes and sizes, and make a beautiful addition to your yard or unit. So get out your green thumb and find the joy in planting a native tree this Earth Hour - here’s a list of native flora we recommend planting.

7. Camping

Revisit your childhood and immerse yourself in a camping trip this Earth Hour. By taking a few days in nature to switch off from the daily grind, you give yourself the rare opportunity to properly connect with nature. From swimming in waterholes to roasting marshmellows on a campfire, get your loved ones involved this Earth Hour and create some camping memories to last a lifetime. Don’t forget to tread lightly and leave nothing but footprints…

8. Journaling

While on your camping adventures, why not bring along a journal to document your nature experience? Journaling in nature is a beautiful way to improve mental well-being while connecting with the great outdoors. Whether writing or drawing, journaling in nature will bring a sense of calm and clarity to your thoughts. Take in the sights, smells and sounds around you and let them inspire your pen - draw and write what you see!

9. Stargazing

Stargazing is a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to take time out in nature this Earth Hour. And it can be done anywhere! Grab some snacks, a blanket and get comfortable outside as you gaze up and marvel at the stars. For the best experience, get out of the city and away from loud noises and fluorescent lights. Get those binoculars out because you’re going to want them for stargazing!

10. Look after yourself by looking after trees

Trees are vital for our health and well-being. They feed us, shelter us from heat, and filter our water. They can even help us reduce stress and lower depression and anxiety. Trees are also our secret weapon against climate change, as they’re nature’s way of absorbing CO2 and locking away carbon. Put simply - we all need trees. Find out about the benefits of trees and what actions you can take to protect them by visiting wwf.org.au/we-all-need-trees

So, how are you taking #TimeOutForNature this Earth Hour? Let us know on our social channels! Tag @wwf_australia and @earthour_australia when you’re out in nature and don’t forget to sign up to switch off on Saturday 25 March, for your chance to win a dream wilderness escape for two!

SIGN UP FOR EARTH HOUR

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This Earth Hour, we're calling on all Australians to sign up to switch off and join a worldwide community of millions taking #TimeOutForNature.