At Personality Matters, one of the most meaningful moments we witness during our outdoor retreats is when a client suddenly says:
“I think I know what I need to do now.”
They often say it softly, almost surprised… as though the answer had been waiting all along, but they finally had the quiet and space to hear it.
That’s the beauty of nature: it doesn’t just calm and ground you. It helps you reconnect with your own inner wisdom.
You know that wise part of yourself — the one that knows what really matters to you, what you need, and where you want to go? Sometimes we lose touch with it, drowned out by noise, stress, and the expectations of others. But it’s still there, waiting for you.
Nature gives you the perfect environment to listen.
In this post, I’ll share three practices that can help you tune into your intuition: Animal Reflection, Sunrise Intentions, and Forest Reflection.
Why tune into your intuition?
Intuition is that quiet inner knowing. It’s the sense of “this feels right” or “something’s off” that doesn’t always come from logic.
Psychologists describe intuition as a kind of unconscious processing — your mind and body taking in more than you consciously realize and guiding you toward what’s best for you.
Studies show that when people trust their intuition, they often make better decisions, feel more aligned with their values, and experience less stress.
And when you’re in nature, away from distractions and stressors, it’s easier to hear that quiet voice inside you.
Practice 1: Animal Reflection
Why it helps:
Animals often symbolize qualities or messages that resonate with us. Noticing what animals appear to you — and what they make you feel — can give insight into what you need or what’s stirring within you.
How to do it:
During a walk in nature, keep your eyes open for any animals. Notice which one catches your attention.
Pause and simply watch it. How does it move? What qualities does it seem to embody? Strength? Playfulness? Patience?
Then ask yourself: Why might this animal have shown up for me today? What lesson might it be offering me?
You can even look up symbolic meanings later if you like. But more important is what you feel it means.
Practice 2: Sunrise Intentions
Why it helps:
The sunrise is a powerful reminder of new beginnings. Taking a few quiet moments in the morning to set your intention for the day helps you align your choices with what truly matters to you.
How to do it:
Set your alarm a little early and find a place where you can watch the sun rise. As the light begins to brighten the sky, take a few deep breaths.
Ask yourself: What do I need most today? What kind of person do I want to be today?
It could be something simple: I will be kind to myself.
Or: I will focus on what I can control.
Or: I will take one small step toward what I want.
Write it down if you like, and carry it with you through the day.
Practice 3: Forest Reflection
Why it helps:
Forests have a way of quieting our minds and opening our hearts. Being surrounded by trees and stillness can help you reflect more deeply on decisions or questions that have been weighing on you.
How to do it:
Find a wooded area, a park with trees, a hiking trail, or even a quiet garden with tall plants.
Walk slowly or sit among the trees. Think of a question you’ve been holding. It could be big or small. Then just sit quietly, observing the trees, the light, the sounds.
Don’t try to force an answer. Just listen… to the forest, and to yourself.
Sometimes clarity comes right away. Sometimes it comes later, when you’re not thinking about it. Trust that your intuition will speak when it’s ready.
Trust yourself — you already know more than you think
If you’ve been feeling unsure or stuck lately, know this: you already hold the answers you’re looking for.
Nature can’t give you those answers, but it can help you slow down, quiet the noise, and hear what’s been inside you all along.
Try one of these practices this week. Notice what comes up. And even if the answer isn’t clear right away, trust the process. Just spending this time with yourself and with nature is already a step toward clarity.
Dr. J. Peter is a specialist in mindfulness, psychological type and cognitive-behavioural sciences. He helps clients build better emotional and psychosocial well-being.
Personality Matters LLP 