The sun is shining and the weather is getting warmer. Sunny days make it hard to resist spending time outside. Getting outdoors is good for you too. The sun’s rays provide natural Vitamin D, you are sure to get some exercise, and outdoor air is typically refreshing and healthy.
If you are looking for excuses to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, check out some favorite ways to appreciate nature. The following are a round-up of great excuses to spend time outdoors.
Scope out state parks
The U.S. is known for beautiful, typically well-kept state parks. Parks typically offer playgrounds, trails to walk, sports fields, and any number of outdoor activities.
Some parks offer campgrounds. Even if you don’t have a tent or camper, parks sometimes offer fully equipped cabin rentals. Just check to see if you need to bring your own linens (things like sheets and towels).
Wildflower identification
Spring is the best time to spot local flora. If you live in the southern U.S., then local wildflower season often begins in March. Meanwhile, northern states may experience snow and cold weather until late spring.
Check your local and state park websites to learn when and where you can spot the best seasonal flowers. There are a number of websites that can help you identify flowers based on region.
photo credit: CB
Wildflower identification websites:
Wildflowers in the U.S.
U.S. Wildflowers (check the drop down menu in the middle of the page to select your state)
Texas wildflowers
California wildflowers
Northern California Wildflowers
Florida wildflowers
Gallery of Florida wildflowers
Georgia wildflowers
Southwest and West Wildflowers
Pacific Northwest wildflowers
Photos of wildflowers from Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia
Wildflowers of the Northeast
Hit the road
Plan a road trip instead of flying. Support local businesses in your area, state, or region. Whether you stay in a hotel or on a campground, you can still find ways to spend time outdoors. Add to your itinerary a trip to the local farmer’s market and outdoor dining.
Even your time spent in the car getting there can be considered an outdoor experience if you roll down the windows to enjoy the breeze. Take breaks from driving to stretch, observe nature, and check out quirky pit stops.
Before you hit the road, definitely check out tips for using less plastic. We have to remember that the garbage we create, especially non-biodegradable trash, harms the earth. If we appreciate the benefits of nature, it makes sense to do our part to protect it.
Beautify your yard or volunteer
Spruce up your lawn regularly to get outdoors. Nix chemical weed killer and pull weeds the old fashioned way, with your hands. Trim trees yourself and take a walk around the perimeter of your home weekly to check for pruning needs and look for any needed home repairs.
Creating a garden in your back yard is a great way to spend time outdoors and benefit from pesticide-free produce. You need an initial investment in enriched soil and something to create a perimeter for a large, stand-alone garden. Otherwise, try a hanging basket of tomatoes or plant a fruit tree to give your green thumb a try.
If you don’t own a home, volunteer with local organizations that help those in need with lawn work and home repairs. You might even find nearby homeowners who wouldn’t mind paying you to mow their lawn.
Nature can be beautiful and life-giving. The outdoors provide sustainable, affordable, and healthy ways to relax, an escape from being stuck indoors, and opportunities to improve our life and help others. Give some of these ideas a try.
Comment below with your favorite outdoor activity.
Healthy Home Warrior 