We’ve all learned a new word in the past few weeks, social distancing. Social distancing is where you stay at least 6 feet away from someone else whom you have not had contact with. This has left us with a new way of day to day life and how we interact and live. I wanted to share some fun things we do outdoors that would allow you to practice social distancing and still get outside. Here are my outdoor activities you can do while practicing social distancing.
Hiking!
This is one of my favorite things to do in the outdoors. I love enjoying the sounds of nature while I walk through the woods.
Check before you go at your local, state and national parks to make sure they are still accessible.
Fishing!
Going fishing can be relaxing! You will need a fishing license but in many states these can be purchased online, so no need to go to a store to get this.
All you’ll need a fishing pole, bait and a nice body of water.
Bird watching!
I love birds! They are so amazing to watch and try to identify. You can find online bird guides and as you watch bird you can begin to learn to identify them. Did you know bird watching is one of the most loved hobbies in the world?
Tree Identification!
I am terrible at this, however, I am always trying to learn more. I have gotten down the Shagbark Hickory tree but other than that I really struggle. This is an activity I have been working on the past year.
Meditation!
In the woods and in nature you can take some time to settle your anxiety and stress by meditation. I personally meditate on Bible verses from the Psalms. These encourage me and calm my mind in difficult times.
Star Gazing!
Outdoor time doesn’t always have to be during the day. In the evenings after the sun goes down check out the sky. There are all kinds of stars and planets you can see with the naked eye. We do not own a telescope, but we enjoy star gazing and identifying constellations.
Reading in a Hammock!
Oh how I love reading outdoors. I don’t need a pandemic to send me there. If you don’t have a hammock take out a large sheet and spread it out and enjoy your book right there. Soaking in the breezes while I flip each page is one of my favorite past times.
Go Creeking!
What is creeking? Let me explain. You head to your nearest creek, take off your shoes, roll up your pants and wade in! After you get used to the water begin to explore the depths of the creek. What you will find depends on where you live.
Climb a Tree!
Admittedly, I will leave this one up to the youngsters. I don’t love heights and I have never been great at climbing trees. However, if your agile this is a great way to view the countryside or park your in.
Pick Up Trash!
Help the environment while you are enjoying the outdoors. Gather up trash along the path you’re on or look for it within the park you are enjoying. Do something good for the planet while you enjoy her fresh air.
#pickupamerica is a great way to share your clean up on social media.
Take a Bike Ride!
I think getting exercise by biking and enjoying the outdoors is a perfect way to beat the blues. You can bike on a path, mountain bike trail or around the neighborhood!
Make an Outdoor Instagram!
Chronical your outdoor adventures on the gram. I love seeing what everyone is finding and doing in the outdoors. Share what you are seeing and experiencing. You could be the inspiration for someone else to start enjoying the outdoors too!
If you do this tag us @gleason_family_adventure We’d LOVE to see what you find!!
