Spring has a way of inviting us to pause — to look a little closer — to notice.
The soft green of new leaves, the warmth of the sun after months of chill, the sound of birds waking us up in the morning — these are small details that we often rush past. But in slowing down and choosing to notice them, we give ourselves a sweet little gift of mindfulness.
What is the art of noticing?
The art of noticing is the practice of slowing down and becoming aware of the small, often overlooked details of everyday life. It’s about paying attention with intention — tuning in to sights, sounds, sensations, and moments that might otherwise slip past unnoticed.
At its heart, it’s a simple and accessible form of mindfulness. Mindfulness is often thought of as meditation or structured practice, but noticing reminds us that it can be as easy as observing bird’s singing, the way sunlight filters through the window, or the warmth of a cup of tea in your hands.
Why noticing matters
- It anchors us in the moment — Noticing pulls us out of autopilot and back into the here and now. It connects our mind and body.
- It sparks joy in the ordinary —When we pay attention to small details, everyday life becomes richer.
- It restores calm — Like mindfulness, noticing helps quiet racing thoughts and creates space for stillness.
How to practice the art of noticing this spring
- Step outside and engage your senses — What do you hear, smell, feel, see? This sensory awareness is mindfulness in action.
- Keep a noticing journal — Write down one small detail you observed each day — what sensations did you experience on your morning walk, or what did you observe on the way home from work.
- Pause between tasks — Before rushing to the next thing, take a breath and notice something grounding in your environment.
- Celebrate subtle shifts —The longer daylight, the softness of the air, the way your energy begins to lift — these seasonal changes mirror the gentle transformations that mindfulness helps us see within ourselves.
Spring teaches us that change doesn’t happen all at once — it unfolds slowly, gently, often in ways we might miss if we don’t pay attention. By practising the art of noticing, we not only connect with the beauty around us but also cultivate the mindful awareness that allows us to feel calmer, clearer, and more in tune with ourselves.
