Our lives run on uber speed. Our stuffed out schedule makes it almost impossible to find time for a proper vacation. As we run like rats on a treadmill, we forget that we are running headfirst into a burnout. As our lives become more and more digital, our eyes barely ever leave the screens of our computers and smartphones. Even to reduce stress, we depend on machines, which is why learning to relax in nature is so important!
Relax in Nature
We often forget or overlook how nature is an earthly reward for our existence. In nature, we can find the healing that no amount of Youtube and Netflix can give us. Free yourself from the restrains of your robotic life. Try out these ways to destress and relax in nature.
Into the Wild
How often do you get to explore the wilderness? Chances are you never do, right? After working five days a week, people just want to come home and crash. Netflix and chill might be fun, but ever tried losing yourself to the wilderness? It is the ultimate submission of your soul. Search for wooded areas near you and lose yourself to the song of birds. Observe the dance of squirrels or the flight of birds. Take a hike in the greenery and become one with nature.
Taking a walk in the streets can never compare to the relaxation you will find in a forest. Staring at natural green can improve your eyesight!
Weekend Camping Trips
The word camping brings out wonderful childhood memories of roasted marshmallows and fireside ghost stories. Camping is the ultimate way to become one with nature. What makes it even more fun is that it can be a group activity. Inspire your family and friends to camp out with you, or try going solo for some ‘me’ time.
At Faveable, you can find every possible camping solution. From tents to camp showers, Faveable will rank your best options. Camping near a lake gives you the opportunity to try out fishing. Fresh, campfire roasted fish taste amazing. Staring up into the starry night, your stress will melt away. Taking refreshing dips into the lake under the moonlight is also a must-try!
Visit the Mountain Ranges
We are so used to high rise buildings and towers that we forget nature’s magnificent peaks. Get the bird’s-eye view from earth’s natural soaring points.No cell reception? No problem! Mountain ranges are great for getting away from your stressful life. Breathe in that fresh air and revitalize yourself.
Some mountainous regions have waterfalls or lakes high up in the mountains. These water sources have freshwater incomparable to what we get in the city. Imagine that glowing sunrise in the morning. Doing yoga and meditation on top of a mountain is the ultimate spiritual experience. For those who love to climb, mountains are the place to be. Say goodbye to stress by conquering that peak.
Hit the Beach
Most people love the beach. The sound of the crashing waves, the feeling of grainy sand under your bare feet, what’s not to love? Did you know that a visit to the beach can also aid your health?
Not only do you get a boost of vitamin D, but the beach can also give you a full-body cleanse and even improve your metabolism. Let’s not forget how healing the seaside is for our soul. Nothing is more relaxing than lying under shade by the ocean with the melody of the sea in your ears. A refreshing swim in the ocean is uplifting for both mind and body.
Go for a Picnic
If weekend trips feel expensive, try picnics instead. Plan out a picnic with your family, friends or a loved one. Parks are available in almost every city. Skip the picnic table and lay the cloth on the grass. Staying closer to the ground makes you feel more at one with nature.
Try packing homemade food for the picnic and give your body a break from the abuse of fast food. Playing outdoor games are a must during a picnic. It is healthy for your body and great for bonding time with your children, family or friends. If you want to spend some time alone, try a solo picnic. Learn to fly a kite, read a book or do some self-reflection.
Get a Dog
Despite the responsibility, owning a dog can be like chicken soup for your soul. Especially if you live alone, your dog can keep you company. We get unconditional love from our dogs. When we are upset, not only do they realize it, they also try to cheer us up. Many depressed people claim that their dogs could reach them emotionally when other humans couldn’t. Most importantly, dogs give us an excuse to go out for a walk or a run. They force us to get out and play. They are nature’s stress relievers.
Try out Gardening
No better way to get closer to nature than getting down and dirty with gardening. Not only does this give you a hobby, but you are also helping the environment. With gardening, you get to rest your brain and rejuvenate your body at the same time. Yes, gardening is physical work that helps you burn calories. You can try growing flowers, as their scent and aesthetics melt your stress away.
Or you can try growing some of your own food, like tomatoes, onions, etc. For those who have a backyard, gardening gives you a chance to create your own safe place for relaxation. Those living in apartments can try growing potted plants in their balcony or even indoors.
Outdoor Exercise
We often workout indoors. Taking the exercise outside, into a park or even your balcony can give you a burst of fresh air to inhale. Try waking up early and doing yoga outdoors. The early morning air is extremely beneficial for your body. Like yoga, Tai chi has a wonderful impact on your body and mind. You can either do it alone or find a local Tai chi group and it is a great way to relax in nature.
If you are not into either, try cycling or running in the park. If you don’t feel like doing vigorous exercise, simply go for a walk in nature or try meditation. Meditation is the number one cure for stress.
Take Your Work Outdoors
We often work long hours, stuck in our office, for five days a week. No wonder so many of us are heading for burnout. If taking a break is difficult, try taking your work outdoors for a bit. Many of us work with laptops. You can simply take your laptop to a park, sit on a bench and work. You can do the same with a file or a book you have to read.
People often go to restaurants and cafes for meetings. Try doing that at a park. Parks are usually very silent during afternoons. This will give you the peace and quiet you need to discuss important issues.
Admire the Skies
In our daily hassle, we are so busy looking forward that we forget to look up. This is the simplest entry on this list and the easiest activity to do. Every once in awhile try looking up. You may not see a sky full of stars, like in the countryside. But, you will see is a vast sky full of untapped wonders.
Staring into the heavens, we realize how tiny we are. Our complex problems will seem like nothing in comparison. If you argue that your city sky is nothing special, you are wrong. Even the most polluted cities have majestic cloud formations, beautiful moon sighting, and glorious sunsets. Look up and refresh your mind.
Conclusion
Taking a timeout to rewind in nature is a necessity. Don’t forget that you can always heal your mind, body, and soul with nature.
