Go Outside to Go Inside: Finding Calm in Five Minutes

Life doesn't always give us the luxury of slowing down.

Between caregiving, family responsibilities, appointments, and the endless to-do list, taking care of ourselves can easily become one more thing we never quite get around to doing.

In this solo introduction, Wendy shares how caring for her 96-year-old mother has changed not only her daily routine but also the way she thinks about self-care. Looking for ways to restore calm in an often unpredictable day, she revisits one of her favorite conversations from the Boomer Banter archives with certified forest therapy guide Angie Stegall.

Together they explore the practice of forest bathing—not hiking, exercising, or identifying trees—but simply slowing down, becoming present, and engaging your senses in nature.

The best part? You don't need hours in the woods.

Angie explains how even five minutes in your own backyard can help quiet your mind, reduce stress, and reconnect you with yourself.

Whether you're a caregiver, recently retired, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life's constant demands, this episode offers a simple reminder that peace is often closer than we think.

In this episode, you'll learn:What forest bathing really is—and what it isn't.Why slowing down can actually improve your patience, mood, and sense of well-being.How mindfulness and nature work together to calm a busy mind.A simple five-minute practice you can try today, even if you don't have time for a hike.Why going outside may be one of the best ways to reconnect with yourself.

Resources MentionedAngie Stegall – Forest Therapy Guide and CoachNotes from Nature by Angie StegallWendy's Substack: Thriving Through Time by Boomer BanterA description of Forest Bathing from Cleveland Clinic

Connect with Wendy: wendy@heyboomer.bizIf this episode resonates with you, I'd love to hear about your experience. Have you tried spending five quiet minutes outside? What did you notice?

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Sometimes the greatest gift we can give ourselves isn't doing more.