Want to be more present but can’t disconnect from your devices?

Have you ever gone for a walk and tried to be present in nature, but couldn’t stop looking at your phone? I know the feeling! It can be difficult to fully disconnect even if we have the best intentions. But what if I told you there are some apps that will help you be even more connected to nature, so you can one day start leaving the phone at home on your daily walks?

These free apps can help!

Seek by iNaturalist

Seek helps you identify plants, animals, and fungi when you use your phone camera. Even before you open the camera, you can see common plants and animals in the nearby area. Spend your time identifying plants rather than scrolling social media, and it will totally transform the way you view your neighborhood!

Merlin Bird ID

Ever heard a bird chirping and wondered what was making that sound? This app will help you identify birds by their chirps! Stuck inside but want to know what birds might be flying around outside? You can also check out likely birds in your area and listen to their bird songs, all in the app.

Star Chart

One of my personal favorites is Star Chart, which identifies the stars and constellations in the night sky. I love holding my phone up at night and checking out the names (and overlaid images!) of the constellations, the planets, and the individual stars.

Fun fact: did you know that Mintaka was named after a star? It’s the far right star in the constellation Orion’s belt. You can learn more about why we named the company after this star here.

Conclusion

While completely disconnecting from your electronic devices will help you be the most mindful and present in nature, it can be difficult to turn them off when you’re used to staring at them all day. So go ahead, take them along! Just use the apps to help you identify what you’re seeing, and then take a few minutes away from the phone to observe nature on its own terms.