In our busy schedules of bouncing to work, to school, to home then back to school, it is hard for us to just sit and be outside. I’m not talking about sitting outside on a phone or walking to your car at the parking garage across campus. I am talking about spending time outside and taking the time to look around you and notice the nature around that unlike the rest of world isn’t processed, man made, or built to make money. It just is.
There is something to do outside for all of us. Even those who bate bugs and always seem to get bitten the second they walk out their front door. Here is a list of things that you can do outside that will help improve your focus, mood, and energy level, just to name a few of the much needed benefits.
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1. Take a Walk
Explore the parts of campus that you haven’t been to in awhile, or find some parks in your area that have walking trails that you have never visited. Bonus: When I go to a trail that I haven’t before, I feel a little bit more connected with the community. Which helps as a college student who is 4 hours away from home.
2. Do Homework or Read a Book
Set up a blanket on the ground or find a nice bench and do your homework outside. The change of environment might help you if you are losing your interest in studying and the fresh air will help you relax.
3. Find a Restaurant with a Patio
If none of the other activities sound like something you would do, then give this one a try. I love sitting out on the patio on a beautiful day with a virgin pina colada.
4. Rent a Canoe or Kayak
Start tanning early, and plan a trip to the water with friends or just go alone. Being out of the water before the summer, is just as fun you just might have to wear some more clothes.
5. Have a Picnic
This is a cheap date idea or a fun girl’s night. Pack up a dinner at home and bring it to a near by park or even just set it up in your backyard. You can even make in more romantic by lighting candles and playing some music on your phone.
6. Go to a Farmer's Market
Look online to see if there if a farmer’s market in your area. The one in my hometown usually has quite a few tents with art and crafts, activities for kids and some food trucks. Whenever we go, we usually have a great time and come home with some delicious fresh fruits and vegetables!
7. See a Movie at a Drive-In Theater
Some drive-in theaters will have new movies that were just released. You can grab some lawn chairs, a blanket or sit on the hood of your car. Most of them of super affordable and you usually get two movies for less then the price of one at other theaters.
Spending a small amount of time outside everyday can really make a difference especially before finals week. Don’t let yourself get to stressed from bouncing to one place to the next. Spend time enjoying the natural, beautiful world around you, because no matter what happens in life you can always count on the natural world.
