As kids, we were always told to go outside and play. It was, of course, a great way for the adults to get some peace and quiet, but it was also good for our health.
Spending time outside has significant mental and physical health benefits. From the fresh air and Vitamin D to the exercise you get, the longer you’re outdoors, the better you’ll feel.
But what can you do to pass the time if you’re not a natural outdoors enthusiast? Here are 10 surefire ways to motivate yourself to get off the couch and go enjoy nature!
Go Out in Your Own Backyard
Outside activity doesn’t have to mean going on a road trip. If you have a small patch of yard or a neighborhood you can safely walk in, try these five local outdoor hobbies:
Start a garden. Do colorful flowers make you smile? Are you a culinary artist that loves herbs and fresh veggies? Or maybe having aloe or another medicinal plant would come in handy.
Whatever plants you’re interested in, you can start a garden and grow it. Research what grows in your climate, and then find garden supplies Kilsyth or wherever you are.
Play a game. Decent weather is the perfect time to play games outside. Frisbee, badminton, and cornhole don’t take too much space. If you just want the air and not the activity, bring out a checkers or chess set or play Solitaire on your own.
Take a walk. Download a simple fitness app on your phone and track your steps. Challenge yourself to get more steps in every day.
Have a picnic. Pack a picnic basket with a variety of your favorite snacks and finger foods and a thermos. Add a blanket, napkins, and a small bag for garbage. Spread the blanket out on the dry, flat ground and enjoy your meal in the fresh air.
Watch the sky. Is it a bird? A dinosaur? A school bus? Use your imagination as you stare at the clouds. Grab an astronomy book and stargaze at night while you try to find the constellations.
Take a Road Trip
Ready to get out of your hometown for a little while? Don’t head to the mall or an indoor destination. Spread your horizons with these outdoor adventures.
Take a hike. Is there a hiking area near you? Put on a sturdy pair of sneakers or hiking boots, grab a bottle of water, and take a hike!
Hit the water. Find a pool, pond, lake, or ocean and relax by or in the water. Bring a book or a fishing pole—whatever helps you pass the time and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Learn to fly a drone. Technically, you can do this in your own backyard. But flying a drone in a bigger area might land you some interesting photos!
Rent a scooter or a bike. Many small and large cities have scooter and bike rentals. Segways are popular, too. Rent one and explore your town like you’re a tourist!
Go camping. Even if you’ve never camped before, step outside your comfort zone. Today’s camping experiences can range from entirely primitive to “glamping” options. Pick your preference and get away from it all for a night or two!
Do any of these sound like something you might be interested in? Try a few gradually or all of them until you head outside as part of your daily routine. It might take a few days (or a couple of weeks), but you’ll be glad you did when you feel the effects on your overall health.