5 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors

I‘ve talked about my love of the great outdoors on the blog before, and how beneficial it has been for my health and general wellbeing. In short, my time spent outdoors helps me feel better about the chunk of time I spend indoors online, because let’s face it, if you work in marketing and have a blog, you are attached to your digital device most of the day. But I honestly believe there is room for both in this modern world of ours, it doesn’t have to be one or the other.

I wasn’t always the treading the hills with the pup by my side. The main reason I walk is because of our dog, Polly. I understand that might not be an option for all, but that shouldn’t mean everyone can’t benefit from walking. If you’re looking to get outside a little more or need some time-out from your daily routines, here’s some ideas to help make the outdoors a part of your everyday/week/month.

P.S You can learn more about my life in Hebden Bridge, mindfulness and my love of nature and cosy knits via the Woolovers blog in an interview I did with the brand!

Fairisle jumper c/o Woolovers

Solo Walks | If you’re looking to prioritise some time to yourself, taking a walk is a great way to relax, whilst getting exercise too. You can’t rush it, so it forces you to mentally and psychically slow the heck down – we all need that, right? Not only will you benefit from a change in environment, but it will help you to gently ease out the stresses of your day too. Take some time out for you, whether that’s 10 minutes or an hour.

Creative Walks | Use the time outdoors to pursue a hobby or passion. Take your camera and take it off the automatic setting, listen to podcasts that spark inspiration, or bring your notebook and draw/write/plan (my creative ideas always flow better outdoors).

Walk with Friends | OK, I might be showing my age but rather than always opting for coffee shop or bar dates with your friends, why not arrange a walk instead? Pack your backpack with food, a flask of coffee (or your favourite tipple) and enjoy catching up with old buddies out amongst nature. I feel like you bond better, when you haven’t got the hustle and bustle of everyday life surrounding you. Plus, it’s free!

City Walks | Not everyone has breathtaking countryside on their doorstep but we do all live in a beautiful country with so much culture and heritage, so make the most of your cities! Take a stroll with a takeout brew and explore the history, architecture, and hidden treasures (even if it’s a new coffee shop) that your city has to offer.

Neighbourhood Walks | I’ve found some of my favourite walks (and amazing houses) from just ‘winging it’ via my front doorstep. Rather than walking your regular route, that leads to a shop, the train station or your local pub, try walking in a different direction with no purpose. You’ll start noticing things that ordinarily you might have walked straight past before.

A final note. Don’t let the British winter weather put you off. Some of my most memorable walks were spent in the harsh winter of 2018. Enjoy!