Embracing Nature: Relax, Recharge, and Improve Your English Skills

Nature plays a crucial role in our lives, not only for its beauty but also for the numerous benefits it offers. As an intermediate-level English language learner, you can make the most of the natural world to improve your language skills, while also reaping the benefits of relaxation, reduced stress, and increased well-being. In this blog post, we will explore ways to discuss nature in English and provide tips for incorporating nature into your language learning journey.

1. Describing Nature in English

Nature, as an abstract and uncountable noun, is often used to describe the natural world or the countryside. Here are some examples of how you can talk about nature and your experiences in it:

• I enjoy hiking in the mountains.
• The peacefulness of the countryside helps me relax.
• The lush greenery of the forest is soothing to the eyes.

2. Expressing Stress and Relaxation

Discussing your feelings of stress and how nature can help alleviate them is an excellent way to practice English. Here are some ways to talk about stress and relaxation:

• I feel refreshed after spending time in nature.
• The city can be overwhelming at times, and I need a break.
• Being in the countryside helps me clear my head.

3. Sharing Your Experiences in Nature

Sharing your experiences in nature with others can be a fun and engaging way to practice your English. Try describing the landscapes and environments you have visited or would like to visit:

• I recently went on a hike through a beautiful forest.
• My hometown is surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys.
• One day, I would love to explore the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand.

4. Incorporating Nature into Your English Learning Routine

Incorporating nature into your English learning routine can be an effective way to improve your language skills while enjoying the outdoors. Here are some ideas to get started:

• Practice listening to English podcasts or audiobooks while going for a walk or hike.
• Join an English-speaking outdoor group or club to practice conversing with native speakers in a natural setting.
• Write about your experiences in nature in a journal or blog, using descriptive language and vocabulary.

Conclusion: Nature offers a wealth of opportunities for English language learners to practice their skills while also enjoying the benefits of relaxation and stress reduction. By discussing nature in English, sharing your experiences, and incorporating the outdoors into your language learning routine, you can improve your English proficiency and enjoy a more engaging and meaningful learning experience.

Discussion Topics

Put your new knowledge into action by discussing these topics with friends in English or join the Gallery Teachers Speaking Club for even more practice. Part of the Open Learning membership, Speaking Club offers a great opportunity to improve your speaking skills, connect with language enthusiasts, and get feedback from experienced native-level teachers.

The great outdoors

1. Do you enjoy spending time in the countryside? What do you like to do there?
2. What did you think of the Forestry England video? Would you like to go to a forest like this?
3. What might be the benefits of spending time in the natural world?
4. When was the last time you went to ‘The Great Outdoors’? Who did you go with? What did you do?
5. Would you prefer a trip to the mountains or the coast? Why?

Days out

1. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
2. Is there a special place you like to go to spend a day out?
3. What would be your ideal day out? Who would you go with, and what would you do?
4. Why do you think it’s important to spend time away from your work and home life?
5. Some people say we don’t need to visit places away from home because we can see so many things on the internet. What do you think?

Activities & Questions

Now it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. Write your response to the AI EFL Expert Gale below.

Quiz: Vocabulary Matching Quiz: Match the following words related to nature with their definitions:

• Countryside
• Forest
• Mountain
• Valley

• A large, natural elevation of the earth’s surface
• A large area of land covered with trees and undergrowth
• The land and scenery of a rural area
• A low area of land between hills or mountains

Writing Prompt: Write a short paragraph about your favourite outdoor activity and why you enjoy it. Use descriptive language to paint a picture of the natural environment and the experience of being in nature. Then, share your paragraph with Gale and ask the AI EFL Expert to provide feedback on your use of vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure.