Our kids aren’t the only ones who crave time outside. Houses and offices are increasingly designed to maximize natural light and “bring the outdoors in” because us adults feel better living and working in places where we feel connected to nature.
Rx: The great outdoors
Doctors in the United States and the United Kingdom are writing prescriptions for nature and encouraging patients to spend time outdoors for the physical and mental benefits.
So much of our time is spent indoors checking off to-do lists. Sometimes the only bit of nature we get is seen through a window or experienced between work, errands and activities. Don’t let your time outside be limited to parking lots and driveways. There are better, lower stress ways to spend quality time outside.
Dine al fresco
Everyone needs to eat, and it doesn’t take any extra time to eat outside. Eat on the deck or have a picnic. It doesn’t have to be social media worthy. Just grab an old blanket, lay out and leave the crumbs for the birds. This simple relocation accomplishes the goal of easy time outdoors.
Get some work or studying done
We’ve all experienced that sudden halt of productivity. You’ve hit a wall. You just can’t study anymore, or you’re fresh out of ideas. Changing scenery can reset your mind. Take a break and find a comfortable spot outside that suits your task. Maybe the sounds of nature will inspire you. At the very least, you’ll decrease stress levels, and who couldn’t benefit from a little less stress?
Get your move on
Consider this an opportunity to choose your own adventure. Take some time for yourself and go for a run or a bicycle ride. Get the family involved and take the dog for a walk around the neighborhood. Drive to a trail you’ve been meaning to try, lace up your hiking boots and go for it. There is no wrong way to do this—just remember to be safe. Be visible if you’re exercising outside at night, and let a friend know which trail you’re trying this time. Better yet, take a buddy with you!
Catch up with friends
Already have plans to meet a friend? See if they want to hit the trails or grab a coffee. You can sit outside or channel your inner Audrey Hepburn while you window shop your way down the street.
Take your downtime outdoors
While it may be hard to pack up a woodworking shop and move it outside, there are many hobbies you can indulge in anywhere. Artists, photographers, readers and writers can all move with their mood. Sometimes dreary weather makes these pursuits even better—capture a haunting picture or read the newest bestselling suspense novel. Consider growing your stock of hobbies by trying something new that requires dedicated outdoor time, like gardening, fishing or skiing.
Head to the farmers market
Break up your grocery shopping routine and visit the local farmers market first. Get meal inspiration from seasonal, local produce and slow down to take in the sights. Many markets offer more than just fruits and vegetables, so you never know what may be around the corner.
Date night
Date nights are an important way to reconnect with your significant other. Instead of the typical dinner and a movie, think outside the box. Do some research into local outdoor festivals. On a clear night, download an astronomy app and see what constellations you can find.
Beat the winter weather blues
It’s easy to talk about spending time outdoors when the sun is shining and the days are warm, but don’t be afraid to venture outside in colder weather too. If those trails are clear of ice and snow, add on an extra layer and keep hiking. Take your kids to the ice skating rink or your sketchpad to a quiet, snow-covered street.
You don’t need a prescription to spend more time outdoors. Even on a rainy day, you can find somewhere protected from the elements to take a few slow deep breaths and clear your mind. Pause, relax and then continue on with your day with a little less stress.
Not a member?
Join for FREE!
Enjoy encouraging, motivating, uplifting content created just for women like you, all from the health care name you trust: Franciscan Health.
