You’ve probably heard it before–living a more active, outdoorsy lifestyle improves your physical and mental health, overall making you a happier person. Studies show that being outdoors boosts our immune system. Doctors and hikers alike will agree that a walk around the block will help lessen depression and anxiety. The facts are there, but with indoor temptations such as binge-watching your new favorite TV show or working on the computer, it’s harder to make time (and find the energy) to get out of the house. Start with these simple tips to get you going.
1. Download a Hiking App
Yup, there’s an app for that! While it’s always nice to put your phone down while escaping into nature, sometimes it’s best for finding the inspiration to trek the outdoors. A hiking app can help you find the right trek that best suits your skill level. These apps are also helpful for joining communities and getting a better grasp on various park systems.
Hiking apps are easy to use, helpful, and affordable so you can conquer any mountain (or path) you decide to trailblaze. Here are a few free apps to get you started:
Exploring the outdoors is now as simple as downloading something to your phone and then hitting the trail.2. Get the Right Equipment
Start with what you drive–you won’t get too far in a low clearance, front or rear-wheel drive car. If you’re serious about becoming more adventurous, swap out your vehicle for something that can sustain rugged terrain. A 4WD or AWD vehicle is the optimal choice for adventure seekers.Depending on the type of adventuring you’d like to do, simple accessories to your vehicle might do the trick. Start with a roof rack and acquire different accessories along the way, such as a kayak, mountain bike, paddleboard, snowboard, etc. A roof rack will at least give you the accommodation of trying different outdoor activities.
3. Spend More Time in Your Backyard
The easiest way to become more outdoor-minded is to spend more time with Mother Nature. Even if you live in the heart of the city, spending more time in your backyard can lead to becoming more adventurous. If you don’t have a backyard vibe that makes you want to spend more time outdoors, create one! Add a place for friends to gather around a fire and sling a hammock or two. If you're crafty and really want to get crazy, build an outdoor climbing wall.
4. Bike More
If possible, bike when you can. To and from work, to your next group hang, and even running small errands. Of course, avoiding public transportation and/or using your car isn’t always an option. However, part of enjoying the outdoors is respecting the environment. If you can adapt this mentality in your everyday life, you might discover a bigger appreciation for the outdoors. Don’t worry if you don’t own two wheels – choosing to walk can be just as influential.
5. Nature Photography
If you consider yourself a creative person, challenge your hand at nature photography. You’ll get all the benefits of working the left side of your brain as well as breathing in fresh air and soaking up the sunshine. Both of which naturally energize your mind and body. Plus, the more you get into the subject you’re shooting, whether it be scenic landscapes, detailed close-up shots, or simple pictures of your neighborhood, photographing the outdoors will help you stay active and encourages you to keep venturing where you haven’t been before.
6. Create an Outdoor Bucket List
Lists are a great way to conquer challenges and get things done. That’s why we make lists for even the most mundane tasks in our life (hello, grocery shopping). Make an outdoor bucket list of all of the places you want to see, regardless of the skill required. Writing down these destinations not only spur inspiration, they also build a sense of urgency and excitement within yourself. As you cross off places on the list, you’ll naturally begin to add more. Before you know it, you won’t be able to stay away from the outdoors!
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