9 Ways to Move Through Nature Like a Ninja

Where I live is just too beautiful for its own good. The demand to take in nature and its restorative properties has been steadily rising. With increased visitor traffic to natural spaces comes a need for mindful ways to enjoy the environment and share it respectfully. Here are some suggestions:

Preparation

Being prepared is always the key to quality time spent in nature. Of course, it depends on how far into nature you are going and your comfort level. Local parks are a great place to practice for longer forays into wilder terrains.

There are certain items which you may find useful for long trips into nature. Some may seem basic, but it is a good check list. Don’t count on your phone as the reception can be very sketchy in some areas, or might not exist at all.

• Map – It’s always good to have an idea of your location and the terrain you will encounter.
  
  
• Along with the above, a compass can come in handy.
  
  
• A flash light, just in case you don’t make it back before dark.
  
  
• Water in a reusable container. Hydration is always a boost to the body.
  
  
• Wear shoes which are comfortable for you and can withstand the terrain. Don’t be like the man who decided to try his new vegan footwear on a trek through the Himalayas. They fell apart and left him in quite a predicament. (True story)

Ninja Nature Moves

1. Park with consideration

It may have taken you some time to get to that special spot, and the ticket meter may not be close, but think of it as a means to an end. Parking is the challenge in the escape room, the journey of Ulysses.

Parking accessibility is in direct correlation to the popularity of an area, especially in areas not used to having large numbers of visitors, or the space to accommodate them.

The meter readers are eager beavers, as the work is often seasonal. With that in mind, you don’t want to spoil the Nature experience by coming back to your car to find a ticket waving at you. Many natural attractions now require that you to book in advance, so check before you go.

2. Keep Fur babies Close

We love our pets and want our furry companions to enjoy a hiking trail as much as we do. However, it is really considerate to keep them on the trail.

3. Stoop and Scoop to Go

Pick up your doggy poop and take it with you. I have noticed some people get the first part right then throw the bag in the forest. The confusion may be because the bag is biodegradable and think it should be okay to degrade in the forest. (I like to give people the benefit of the doubt.) No, no, that is not how it works. It is not good to cross contaminate and disturb the biosphere of the forest. Leave no trace, Ninja style.

4. Watch for Young Animals

Don’t disturb the young in their dens or nests. It is exciting to get close to young animals as they always seem so cute. Be cautious, as an adult is usually not far away and will be in protective mode if you get too close. Consider that intrusion can compromise their survival. Encounters are something to think about as writer, Bill Bryson (Public Library) acknowledges:

It was not the size or demeanor of the bears that troubled me–they looked almost comically nonaggressive, like four guys who had gotten a Frisbee caught up a tree–but their numbers. Up to that moment it had not occurred to me that bears might prowl in parties.

Bill Bryson, A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail

5. No Sparks

No fires. North America has been experiencing some crazy fire seasons, and they only seem to be getting worse, as we reach new record temperatures each year. You don’t want to be the one to start the spark.

6. Wade in the water?

Water always looks so inviting, especially on a hot day, however, Swimming and wading can affect the ecosystem of a body of water. Some natural pools are being affected by shampoos, and deodorants used by visitors. Try to stick to the designated areas for water contact. One might add something, remove something, or have something attach itself to you.

7. Reuse, Recycle

Take your litter with you. Leave no trace. It is always a surprise to come across plastic bottles, or other garbage under leaves on hiking trails.

8. Be kind to the trees

Hug the trees, don’t climb them. In my area we have some of the oldest trees in the country. Their appearance can be deceiving, as they look barely alive and are not very big. The trees will be a great legacy for the next generation to enjoy.

9. Quiet

Depending on the location of you chosen Nature path, you may still hear the sound of traffic, or you may hear the gurgling of a brook with songbirds in the background. Although total silence is not necessary or practical. And you don’t have to move through a trail using hand signals like you’re on special ops. (Although that would make things more interesting.)

There are things you may miss while in deep conversation on a trail such as: bears in the vicinity, trail signs, or gaps in the path. Walking a trail is an opportunity to embrace nature. Talking and ignoring the natural setting defeats the purpose.

“ Only by going alone in silence, without baggage, can one truly get into the heart of the wilderness. All other travel is mere dust and hotels and baggage and chatter. ”

John Muir

Visit Nature like a Ninja. Leave no trace.