Embracing the Call of the Wild: A Beginner’s Guide to Outdoor Adventure
A little day hike in Alaska!
Outdoor Exploration:
Taking small steps can make the journey more enjoyable and sustainable if you are new to outdoor exploration. Start by finding local parks, nature reserves, or trails that offer easy paths and a comfortable route to explore. When you feel more experienced, you can increase the complexity of outdoor activities, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing yourself to adjust to the new adventure.
Understanding the appeal of outdoor adventures for personal growth and well-being took me a long time to understand. I once dropped my brother off for an overnight hike with a tarp and a pole I thought he was nuts. After many years, I still wouldn’t do it, but I understand it now. It is important to start small and choose the right activity. As I explore more outdoors, I am finding my groove on what motivates me to keep packing up gear and heading out for an adventure. For me, that even means just finding a new urban trail and listening to the birds and babbling streams for a short walk.
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go:
- Investing in essential gear without breaking the bank is fun and rewarding! Make sure you have good shoes and breathable clothing. Plan for chanigng weather when planning your outing.
- Finding a community or a group for support and camaraderie is great for safety in numbers and fun! I often find Meet Up Group and groups on social media. There are a ton of women’s group or mixed if you prefer.
- Make sure to prepare mentally and physically for your first adventure.
- Embrace the solitude in nature! Listen to the birds, the wind, and feel your heartbeat working hard!
- Developing outdoor skills through courses and workshops is a fun way to meet people and learn a new skill.
- Celebrating small victories and building confidence is rewarding! I remember when I first started out hiking and did a hard hike, I was rewarded with great views and a feeling of accomplishment!
The Motivation to Venture Outdoors:
The thought of trying new outdoor things can be daunting. What is your “why” to wanting to get outdoors? Is it for weight loss, mental health, socializations? Whatever it is, embrace it. Being motivated to do something will be a driving force that hoprfully propels you to try something new! The mountains, lakes, forests and all the beauty that nature holds is my motivation.
I Love the escape from every day grinds like grocery shopping, cleaning and work. heading outdoors brings a peaceful blance and is often a reset for my mind and body. My hope is that rejuvenation will be a compelling reason for you to get outside.The motivation to seek solace and rejuvenation becomes a compelling reason to explore the vast beauty of the natural world.
Connecting With Nature:
It is easy to head out on a trail and hike or walk, but truly turning off your work mode or family duties is not easy. I encourage you to really make an effort to decompress when you are outdoors. Start by embracing the simple pleasures – the gentle flutter of leaves, the song ouf a bird, or the hues of a sunrise. I make sure to stop on a trail and take some deep breathes not only because I am tried, but to simply find peace.
Cultivating love for the outdoors also involves trying various activities. Whether it’s hiking through new trails, camping under a starlit sky, or simply strolling through a botanical garden, there are many ways to engage with nature. In my expereince, the more youcan get out, the more you will enjoy it and find new adventures.
The Health Benefits of Heading Outdoors:
Exploring the outdoors offers a myriad of health benefits. Physical activity contributes to improved cardiovascular health, enhanced endurance, and increased strength.It is also good for the mind and spirit. Hiking, cycling, and even a walk through a park can be an effective ways to incorporate exercise into your routine. So
Soaking up some vitamin D form the sun has many health benefits. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. So in a sense, it is the perfect excuse to get outside! I of course must plug the use of sunscreen to protect your skin and avoid a sunburn.
Moreover, the therapeutic effects of nature on mental health have been well-documented. Exposure to green spaces has been linked to reduced stress, anxiety, and depression for many people. As you immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors,I hope you can find some respite from the stressors of everyday life.
Just do it:
Like the old Nike ads say, just do it. You don’t have to be athletic to enjoy the outdoors. You just have to be willing to have an open mind and give it a try. learning to love and explore the outdoors is a transformative experience that goes beyond a mere appreciation for nature. The benefits of outdoor exploration both mentally and physically are very rewarding. One step at a time is all it takes. I would love to hear what motivates youto get outdoors. Please leave me a comment and let me know!