Spending time in the great outdoors has a variety of benefits for anyone but can be especially beneficial for seniors. A recent report posted on Science Direct noted that landscapes have an inherent therapeutic quality. Landscapes such as parks, gardens and street greenery as well as blue spaces such as lakes, ponds, and the ocean are especially therapeutic. We often know it is great to get outdoors but thinking up new things to do isn’t always easy. Here are some great ways to get outside and enjoying nature’s beauty.
Walk:
Nothing beats getting outside whether it be on a sidewalk, backyard, walking path or just outside the front door. Taking some steps outside does wonder. For those facing physical limitations, getting outside with assistance is still therapeutic. Walking outside allows you enjoy the weather and the sounds of nature while soaking up vitamin D from the sunshine.
Events:
Attending a local event is a great way to get out and explore. Some ideas include outdoor sporting events, concerts or farmers markets. Have grandkids that live nearby? Support their activities by attending their sporting events in person. Soccer games or trips to the park are great excuses to get outside.
State/Local Parks:
Prevalent in most areas, parks are a great escape to the outdoors. Most state or municipal parks feature paved walking paths and easily accessible outdoor space. It is not uncommon to find local nature preserves, dog parks or water features. Utilizing parks for a quick escape on a bench or taking time to walk the property is a perfect way to get out and immerse yourself in green space.
Be a tourist:
Getting outside doesn’t always mean taking a conventional approach, like visiting a park. Playing tourist in your backyard is a fun way to get outside. Consider guided trolley rides, walking tours or local attractions such as archaeological sites or preserved forts. Taking the tourist approach is an excellent activity for a solo trip or as a group. These inexpensive activities will get you outside while keeping you entertained.
These are just a few of the many ways you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the world around us. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you decide to do it in the great outdoors!