As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it’s easy to retreat indoors and put self-care on the back burner. However, winter is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and find beauty in the stillness of nature. One of the best ways to do this? Nature journaling.
Spending time outside, even in the cold, can boost your mood, clear your mind, and help you feel more grounded. Even if you observe nature from the warmth of your own home, adding a creative element, like drawing, enhances these benefits even further. In an article published by Science Daily for the National Arts Program, researchers found that “cortisol lowers significantly after just 45 minutes of art creation.” By bundling up, stepping outside, and taking time to observe and sketch the natural world around you, you’re not only nurturing your creativity but also prioritizing your well-being.
Penn State Outreach’s Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, The Arboretum at Penn State, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) are creating experiences that blend artistic exploration and outdoor engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or still learning, each program offers a different path to creativity while encouraging people to observe, reflect, and connect with the natural world.
At Shaver’s Creek, monthly nature journaling sessions invite participants of all ages to engage in hands-on artistic exploration. Combining art, field trips, and naturalist skills, these gatherings offer a family-friendly opportunity to document and appreciate the beauty of nature through sketching and observation.
For those interested in honing their artistic techniques, The Arboretum at Penn State offers free, drop-in nature sketching classes. These sessions focus on using nature as inspiration to experiment with different artistic materials and styles. No prior experience is needed — just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore.
Additionally, the OLLI at Penn State University Park Outdoor Art Group provides a collaborative space for artists of all levels to come together, create, and share their experiences. Meeting monthly, this members-only group fosters a supportive environment where members can experiment with various forms of artistic expression while surrounded by nature’s beauty.
No matter your skill level, these three Outreach programs work hand-in-hand to encourage creative expression while fostering a chance to slow down, observe, and be yourself. So why not step outside, pick up a pencil, and let nature be your guide? Explore these programs and start your creative journey today!
About the Author
Sadie Wilhelm is a junior at Penn State, majoring in advertising with a minor in digital media trends and analytics — and also pursuing her Smeal business certificate. As a proud first-generation college student, Sadie is a member of Tri Alpha, the national honor society for first-gen students. She’s also deeply connected to the campus community through Cru, an on-campus Christian organization where she’s found an incredible support system.
When she’s not hitting the books, you can catch Sadie doodling on her iPad, spending quality time with friends, going on adventures, or living her best life powered by Dunkin’. And when asked what her theme song would be, she confidently chose There She Goes by The La’s. 🎶