5 Key Differences Between Loneliness & Solitude

Feeling alone like me?
Here’s a tool I used in 2017:
→    Solo Nature Exploration

After the end of a relationship, I felt alone — especially during weekends.
So what I did was follow these 6 steps.
Let’s see how you can give it a go.

1.    First off, choose a natural setting.
It could be:
→    a park
→    the sea
→    the forest
→    the lakeshore
→    the mountains
→    …

2.    Now that you’re surrounded by nature, do this:
→    Find a comfy spot to sit or take a slow walk.
I’m a hyperactive guy, so I needed to walk.
What you have to do is this:
→    Pay attention to the sounds of nature.
→    Pay attention to the colors and shapes around you.
Just observe and listen to nature.

3.    Now take a few moments and focus on your breath.
Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, release any tension.
I used to do it while standing by the lake.
Our goal here is feeling the connection between our breath and nature.

4.    Now take out your journal.
Did you really think you could go in nature without a journal?
Come on!
So take out your journal and jot down:
→     Your feelings
→     Your thoughts
→     Your observations
→     Everything you want

5.    Now it’s time for photography or sketching.
Yep! You got it right!
You have two choices:
→    You capture the moment by taking photos.   
→    You can make a sketch of the natural elements you’re seeing — like I did.

6.    Now put away your devices and take a break.
Well, a break for your gratitude practice.
Take your journal again and do this:
→    Write down three things from the natural setting that you are grateful for.
For example:
→    I’m grateful for the blue color of this magical lake
→    I’m grateful for the sun’s rays that are warming me up
→    I’m grateful for the rustling of leaves that keeps me company
That’s it.
This is how I turned loneliness into solitude.
I did this for about 3 or 4 weekends.
Just a couple of hours in nature.
This helped me to:
→    Shake off loneliness
→    Rediscover the connection with nature

.
So give it a try.
And remember:
If you feel alone, it doesn’t mean you’re a weak person.
You just need connection — with others, and with YOURSELF.

Stewart Life Coaching
www.edwastewart.com

504.578.0006