Mother nature. Think of it as nature’s anti-anxiety, anti-depressant medication. When you live in an urban area or have an indoor desk job, you are very likely suffering from a lack of nature.
So imagine combining exercise with the powerful effects of getting back in touch with nature – that’s one potent anti-stress combo! Here are 8 fun and easy ways to de-stress outdoors!
- Go For A Walk
Exercise releases stress and gives you a boost by releasing mood-enhancing endorphins. Pair that with vitamin D from the sun, fresh air in your lungs, as well as greenery or the beautiful, calming ocean nearby and feel your stress slip away!
- Sit Outside And Listen To Music
Research has shown that your mood can be greatly affected by the music you listen to! Listening to loud, upbeat music cheers you up and distracts you from negative thoughts. Unwind with some of your favourite tunes whilst getting some vitamin D and fresh air outside for a gentle mood booster.
- Take Your Dog To The Park
They really are your best friend! Affecting not only your mood, but also your blood pressure actually drops when you pet a dog. Give your puppy some love by taking them to the park or the beach. It will be therapeutic for the both of you!
- Meditate On The Grass
It may seem daunting to do so, but research shows mindfulness is an ever increasingly important skill for our health, and that people who meditate (even for 5 minutes a day!) receive amazing benefits! Try downloading some free guided meditations or listen to some on YouTube to get you started.
- Read A Great Book Under A Tree
Prevent negative thoughts or obsessive thinking by providing a distraction. Even if you don’t like reading, you can listen to audiobooks to take your mind to a whole other world!
- Have A Meal Outside
Enjoy breakfast in your garden, on your balcony, or take your lunch outside if you’re at work. Stepping away from distractions and enjoying your food and your natural surroundings helps to calm the mind.
- Take A Hike! Literally.
Head to your local park or the nearest climbable mountain and enjoy the picturesque views whilst moving your body! You’ll get your adrenaline pumping, see some amazing sights, challenge yourself, and feel a great sense of accomplishment at the end!
- Take Your Kids To The Park
But don’t just watch them, play with them! Rediscover those fun, carefree childhood vibes by swinging on the swings, chasing your kids around the sand, going down the slide and playing imaginary games! Not only is it amazing for your health, your kids will love it too!