Sensory Focus

Exercise: Notice 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.

Guiding Questions: 

• Which plants do you see? Can you identify them from the guide on the home page? Are there any flowers in bloom?  Which colors do you notice? Do you see any animals? What are they doing?

• What do the plants feel like? What is the texture of tree bark? The texture of leaves? (Note: Please do not disrupt or damage the ecosystem as you interact with it! Remember: take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints.)

• What can you hear? Birds? Cars? Other students? Are they loud? Soft? Repeating? Constant?

• Can you smell anything? Flowers? Soil? If so, describe them!

As you notice each of these, describe them non-judgmentally - meaning, avoid words like "good" or "bad," and instead use more objective descriptors. Think about your answers, or even write or draw what you see! *Tip: External processing can help slow and focus the mind. 

Try not to judge yourself as you do this. Be prepared to struggle with this; mindfulness gets easier with practice! 

Guided Breathing

Exercise: Notice your breathing. Regulate your breath by counting the seconds of inhaling, holding, exhaling, and holding. If you want to relax, exhale for longer than you inhale. If you want to energize, inhale for longer than you exhale. 

Examples:

• When starting, it can be helpful to be guided through this process! You can use any audio and video guides available online. 

• 1 Minute Breathing Exercise (Calm Sage)

• 5 Minute Breathing Meditation (Goodful)  

What is Mindfulness?

Visitors can interact with the site by practicing mindfulness, the non-judgemental awareness of the present moment. Mindfulness in nature has been linked to many mental and physical health benefits. 

Stress Reduction and Improved Mood

Research suggests that spending time in green spaces can significantly lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone. This site at USC offers an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate amidst the greenery, the calming effect of the surroundings is undeniable. 

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Nature has been linked to improved cognitive function and focus. Visiting the Queen's Court native planting site can potentially boost creativity, productivity, and academic performance among students. It offers a space for contemplation and inspiration, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. 

Community Engagement

Engaging with nature fosters a sense of connection - to oneself, others, and the environment. The Queen's Court native planting site serves as a communal space where individuals can connect with each other, engage in meaningful conversations, or simply share a moment of tranquility together.