We all know the benefits of spending more time outdoors—vitamin D intake, fresh air, etc.—but actually carving time out of our busy schedules to spend in the great wide open can sometimes feel daunting. Who has the time (or energy) to drive to a state part after a day’s work to hit the trails?
Here's the secret—spending time outdoors isn’t limited to long hikes or weekend camping. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor time if you think outside the box. To that end, we’ve created a list with 7 ways you can get outdoors…and they don’t require a huge time commitment. Let’s take a look!
Get Your Exercise in By Getting Outdoors
Rather than heading to the gym, consider taking your workouts outdoors. Go for a jog at the local park, run stairs at an outdoor amphitheater, or find a local outdoor yoga class. You might be surprised how much better workouts feel when they happen in nature.
Enjoy an Outdoor Hobby
Perhaps you’ve always wanted to plant a garden. Maybe you’ve dreamed about taking surfing classes or find yourself missing that outdoor sport you loved in high school. Consider trying a new hobby that requires you being outdoors. Check with local meet-up groups and clubs to find likeminded people who enjoy the same activity/sport.
Take Work Outdoors
If you have the flexibility, unplug your laptop and take work outside. Sit outside…in your backyard, at the park, or even at a café with outdoor seating—and soak up a little sunshine while sorting spreadsheets.
Eat Lunch in a Greenspace
Whether you work in an office or out of your home, taking your lunch break outside has multiple benefits. Not only does it break up the monotony of the work day, but getting outdoors also leaves you refreshed…increasing the odds you’ll be more productive when you get back to the grindstone.
Replace Restaurant Visits with a Picnic
Instead of making a reservation, why not pack a picnic lunch or dinner? Find a local park with a scenic view, bring a blanket, and enjoy your meal outdoors when the weather is lovely.
Take Fido for a Walk
This is a win/win for everyone. Your dog will benefit from both the exercise and time spent with you, and you’ll enjoy both the walk and the fresh air. And don’t feel as though you have pack up your pup and head to the park. Scruffy will be just as happy with a stroll through the neighborhood.
Start a Nature Journal
Nature journals can include thoughts and drawings…whatever you see that inspires you while you’re outdoors. Not only will journaling hone your observation skills, but having a journal trains you to stop and smell the roses—to appreciate and really see the beauty of nature that surrounds you.
We hope this inspires you to broaden your definition of what it means to get outdoors. You don’t have to spend hours hiking…and you don’t have to travel to scenic destinations.
You only have to open the door…and go.
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