If you have ever wanted to uncover the hidden mysteries of nature, then adopting a sit spot may be the perfect adventure for you. As humans we often spend time in nature moving. Be it walking, skiing, biking, or boarding, Coloradans are masters of outdoor recreation, however when we slow down and spend time being still outside the natural world reveals itself to us.
As we sit quietly the animals that were disturbed by our initial movement come out and resume their daily routine; the birds that called out in alarm upon our arrival return to their original calls and songs. We have the opportunity to see the natural world as a part of it, as compared to a visitor passing through.
To adopt a sit spot chose a place in nature that you feel connected to. It can be somewhere rural, or even a patch of grass in your back yard. Commit to visiting your sit spot during different times of the day and different times of the year. When you visit your sit spot, in addition to sitting and paying attention to the world around you, I invite you to do whatever you feel best doing in your special spot. This may be drawing, knitting, or even taking a nature nap. Now sit back, and get ready to be amazed!
This mini-blog is the first in a 20-part series by Walking Mountains Science Center's Youth Programs staff to celebrate the organization's 20th anniversary of providing natural science education to the Eagle Valley. Stay tuned for more throughout the year!
Sara Monson is the School Programs Director at Walking Mountains. She works to bring engaging science field programs to the students in Eagle County through coordinating with teachers, writing curriculum, and teaching.