Nature Over Notifications: The Creativity Boost You Didn’t Know You Needed

Hayley Scott Summers
Sep 15
3 min read

We live in a world where notifications rule our attention, screens dominate our days and the off switch is becoming harder and harder to find. I greatly appreciate the value of modern technology and the access we have to information and online education is astounding, so this is by no means a slight on tech (I am writing this on an iPad Pro after all!) But what if the secret to your next big idea, or the clarity you’ve been craving, wasn’t inside your inbox or in the next scroll session, but simply outside your front door? I know, hardly a wild and revolutionary concept, and yet it’s one we so often miss in the pursuit of productivity and creativity.

As spiritual entrepreneurs and creatives, nature isn’t just a backdrop for us; it’s a powerful partner in creation. Stepping away from technology and immersing yourself in the natural world, consciously connecting to the elements, can become the creativity boost you didn’t know you needed. One that has the potential to not only invigorate your mood, but also your business.

Walking our dog Rocco, aka the furry hooligan, has become medicine for my soul and business. It’s one of those simple yet powerful rituals that boosts my creativity, restores joy, and helps me feel grounded again. Full disclosure: I don’t manage to take these walks every single day, despite the obvious benefits. Honestly, between running a coaching business, my restaurant, leading a team, raising a blended family, and holding a heart full of dreams alongside a to-do list brimming with goals - my plate is pretty full! So on the days when I feel at capacity, this joyous little ritual often gets delegated to the kids (not sure they see it as joyous!). But here’s the thing: when I skip too many of these walks, I feel it deeply.

There’s a subtle disconnection, a sense that something is “off.” Almost like waking up late and spending the whole morning scrambling to catch up - You’re just not in your flow. Everything feels heavier than it should. And that’s because, as human beings, we are intrinsically connected to nature.

Why Nature is Essential for Creative Energy

Let’s not forget, we’re made of the same energy and magic as sunsets, stars, oceans and forests. We weren’t designed to spend all of our time indoors staring at the same four walls - or worse, glued to the same screen. That’s why time outdoors, even just a simple walk, can completely transform how you feel and create. Here’s the real key: to maximise the benefits, ditch the devices!

That means no scrolling, no emails, no notifications. When you give yourself space without screens, you open up the most glorious possibilities:

Space to reflect
Space to create
Space to gain clarity
Space to let go
Space to breathe and just be

Free from the constant noise of daily responsibilities, you reconnect with yourself in a way that feels magnetic and liberating.

A Free Ritual to Expand Creativity and Clarity

This practice has enhanced my sense of peace and wellbeing whilst also accelerating my creative capacity. It’s like potent rocket fuel and deep meditation wrapped into one. And yes, I still bring my phone along to take pictures! Partly because I spent 10 years as a photographer and old habits die hard but also, I’m an unapologetic nature nerd! I have a camera roll full of painted skies, spring blossoms, and autumn leaves. It’s all a part of my creative process. Capturing beauty around me fills me up on a deeper level and continues to inspire my work.

So if you’re looking for a completely free, soul-nourishing way to: