The Surprising Perks of Indulging in Personal Study in the Great Outdoors

Have you ever experienced the joy of studying or reading the Bible in the great outdoors? There’s just something so rejuvenating about being surrounded by Jehovah’s creations. The fresh air and the blue sky help you find peace and clarity of mind.

I have this incredible memory from when I used to live in a city with a breathtaking park. This particular park had incredibly tall, majestic, ancient trees lining the paths and roadways. As you drove through its winding forest, you would come across strips of road where the stream’s crystal-clear water flowed gracefully over it, and you could drive right through the stream.

On days when I needed the extra refreshment, I would grab my Bible and the Watchtower for the upcoming Sunday, hop into my car, and take the very scenic journey through the park. I would find the perfect parking spot by the streaming waters, roll down my window, and listen to the gentle sound of the flowing water as I prepared my heart and mind for the upcoming meeting. It was always refreshing.

Our wonderful Creator, Jehovah, lovingly crafted the earth as our beautiful home; a home catered specifically to us. So we are intricately connected to this beautiful world in more ways than we can even be aware of in this system of things.

Knowing that to be a truth, it might not surprise you to know that there are scientifically proven benefits to studying, reading, or journaling outdoors. Simply being in the midst of Jehovah’s awe-inspiring creations can enhance our cognitive faculties, sharpen our reasoning abilities, and bless us in countless other ways.

There are so many benefits to doing personal study, Bible reading, or even family worship outdoors:

The Outdoors Boosts Your Energy:

Feeling a little drained and lacking the drive to get started? Need that extra spark to dive into your Bible reading? Well, guess what? Research says that just 20 minutes of fresh air and sunshine can give your brain a delightful energy boost, equivalent to sipping on a cozy cup of coffee. It’s the perfect way to recharge and get that motivation flowing!

Being outdoors improves your mood:

Scientific studies have revealed that the scents of flowers, freshly cut grass, and trees can whisk you away to a state of calm and relaxation. But that’s not all – spending time in nature has countless other benefits for your emotional well-being. It has been shown to improve your mood and lower your stress levels, leaving you feeling happier and more content.

Being outdoors improves creative thinking:

When you find yourself in a slump, struggling to come up with new study ideas to explore or questions you can ask yourself to dive deeper into God’s word, simply stepping outside can work wonders. The fresh air and natural beauty can open your mind and get those creative juices flowing.

The outdoors improves your memory:

Spending time outdoors has been known to enhance your cognitive abilities and give your memory a little boost. Fascinating research has shown that immersing yourself in natural environments can actually enhance your cognitive flexibility, working memory, and ability to concentrate. So not only will it be easier to soak up knowledge about all the wonderful things that make Jehovah special, but you’ll also be giving your brain an incredible boost. You’ll find yourself thinking more clearly, absorbing that spiritual food effortlessly, and retaining it with ease.

The outdoors removes distractions:

The great thing about being outdoors is that it helps you disconnect from technology and really connect with your own thoughts and emotions. Plus, it’s a great way to reduce all those distractions that can sometimes make it difficult to study or concentrate.

The outdoors fills us with Awe:

Being in the great outdoors is truly awe-inspiring! It’s incredible how being in nature can instantly make you feel more connected and less overwhelmed. It’s a chance to really be in the present and appreciate the beauty of everything around you. And in those moments, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe for Jehovah and all the amazing things He has created. It’s a beautiful way to learn more about Him and His promises.

It’s a real change of scenery:

The great outdoors offers a refreshing change of scenery. It can really enhance your study experience by providing a new perspective. Studying outside can make it more exciting and something you’ll actually look forward to.

So look to try doing your personal study or Bible reading outdoors. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your connection with Jehovah through His creations and enhance your learning and thinking ability. We highly recommend giving it a try! There are countless places and ways you can incorporate outdoor study into your routine:

Study in your backyard with a cup of tea.

Imagine sitting in the comfort of your own backyard, with a warm cup of tea in hand, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The chirping birds, the gentle breeze, and the vibrant colors can create a peaceful and serene atmosphere that is perfect for personal reflection and study.

Do personal study at a quiet outdoor cafe.

Alternatively, you could choose to venture out to a quiet outdoor cafe, where you can sip on your favorite drink while immersing yourself in the scriptures. The combination of fresh air, delicious beverages, and the soothing ambiance of a café can truly enhance your study experience.

Go to your local park and find a quiet place.

If you’re craving a change of scenery, why not head to your local park? Find a tranquil spot under a shady tree or by a serene pond, and let the sounds of nature become the backdrop to your study session. The peacefulness of a park can provide a sense of calm and tranquility, allowing you to focus and absorb the spiritual food from your reading.

Find a quiet corner at the beach and study with the sound of the ocean.

For brothers and sisters who live near the coast, imagine finding a quiet corner at the beach, where you can study while listening to the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore. The vastness of the sea and the beauty of the sandy beach can inspire a sense of awe and wonder, making your study time even more meaningful.

Studying outdoors not only offers a change of scenery, but it can also bring you closer to our loving God, Jehovah. Being surrounded by His creation can remind us of His power and creativity, and help us to appreciate the wonders of His handiwork. It can also provide a sense of tranquility and peace, allowing us to connect with Him on a deeper level.

While it may not be feasible to study outdoors every day, we encourage you to give it a try whenever you can. We have no doubt that you’ll find it to be a refreshing and enjoyable way to engage with the scriptures and nurture your own spiritual growth. So grab your Bible, find a cozy spot in nature, and let the beauty of the outdoors enhance your personal study experience.