2020 was the year that tested our sanity. Long periods of being isolated and homebound were all new to us. Just like withdrawing from something we’re so used to constantly having with us, we can all agree that we shared the same separation anxiety from going out. With recent developments, including the massive rollout of vaccines, we are steadily gaining back a sense of normalcy.
With outdoor activities becoming less and less restricted, many of us could be already listing the adventures we’ve been yearning to do after being challenged by the widespread health crisis for so long. If you’re one of those who are still fumbling for ideas or can’t pick from a long to-do bucket list, allow us to give you our two cents. Here are some things you could finally try in 2021 that would help you de-stress and recollect yourself while, of course, heeding the most recent guidelines for domestic travel.
Exercise and Meditate Outdoors
Last year, the viral scare gave us all the reasons to take care of our physical and mental health, yet many neglected these. This year, get that fitness band that’s been sitting idly on your table to do some crunches and burpees to shed the stress-induced pounds you’ve gained in the past year. With your newfound freedom, get more in touch with nature and match its rhythm by jogging or doing yoga in your local park. Or, why not finally try hiking or biking in one of the country’s well-known ridges and see the majestic overlooking view once you finish the trail?
This year is the year you’re going to take better care of yourself, and that could mean going off the grid from time to time. Aside from exercising, release the week’s pent-up tension through meditation and even breathing exercises. Do it at your convenient time. Instead of doing these in your bedroom—which could be suffocating—switch it up a bit, inhale the fresh air, and indulge in the calming effects of the ambient sounds that only nature can provide.
Drive Off-Road
If your vehicle can handle it, take it off-road for a rare exhilarating experience. It’s only understandable that some of you are intimidated at how riding through rough paths could make you queasy, but at least hear us out on this one. Studies have shown that off-roading is actually a therapeutic activity.
Not only does it get your heart pumping, but it also helps you strengthen your muscles as you maneuver your car across rugged terrain. Driving off-road engages you not only physically but also mentally, as going through visible obstacles requires some strategy. Finishing the trail would not only feel like an accomplishment, but you’ll also regain that sense of inner balance.
Go Fishing
You may have been hesitating to try fishing for some time now because you think it’s such a chore or that only professionals could do it. No wonder fishing is one of the most popular hobbies worldwide, and, no, it doesn’t take a professional to lure a fish. While taking more time to catch a fish teaches you the value of patience, succeeding in catching one could just be as rewarding.
If you’re still on the fence about going fishing, what’s worth noting is you’re more likely to catch one when they’re in season. For instance, flatfish, abundant in the Atlantic Ocean, are in season from May to November. You wouldn’t want to miss a chance to catch a trout or, better yet, the biggest known flatfish—the halibut—during these months. Typical halibut fishing trips usually come with a chartered boat. Depending on how skilled you are or the fishing gear you have, you can always have a fishing guide assist you with baiting your hooks, casting your rods, reeling your lines, and pulling it for when there’s a possible catch.
Make Art Outdoors
Often ignored in our mundane lives, nature is the biggest inspiration for art. Every season lends us uniquely hued foliage and sky patterns. It’ll be very great to commemorate this year and cherish the thought of being able to freely go out by translating into a sketch or painting that wonderful view you came across.
Go on a Picnic
Dining in restaurants with your loved ones is always pleasurable. But there’s something so alluring about sitting on a mat placed on the grass by the lake, clinking wine glasses, eating finger foods, and watching the dynamic colors of sunset and maybe some ducks floating on the still lake water. Make the picturesque moment more memorable and have heart-to-heart conversations with your loved ones to nurture relationships rooted in better communication.
Last year, we allowed nature to heal. Let’s continue to heal with it as we are given more chances to be in touch with it. Here’s to hoping you get to enjoy the outdoors more this year.
