Coronavirus restrictions have gotten us all down at some point.
This year’s Holiday Season might just have been one of the most miserable on record with not being able to see family and friends the way that we are used to. But we don’t have to add to the feeling by staying inside as there are things we can take advantage of right near us:
- Taking a walk for pleasure
- Appreciating what is around us
- Relaxing in the garden
Almost all of us have access to at least one of these activities so take advantage of the gift that is always free to receive and has been proven to significantly improve mental health and wellbeing; nature.
Walking
This might sound a little too obvious, but taking a walk is an amazing way to clear your head. We can all take a walk, no matter where we live. City streets are packed with all kinds of things to see and even though you might live in a dense urban area, you can still be aware of staying healthy by donning your mask and socially distancing while out for a stroll.
Anyone with dogs is used to walking around their immediate area anyway since getting the animals out for their daily business is a must-have, although it sometimes isn’t as fun in the Winter due to the cold, so wrap up warm and reach for the chapstick. Some pad and paw balm for the dog might be a good idea as well if you plan on walking far or if the ground is particularly cold.
Wide-Open Spaces
No matter how welcoming it is, sometimes the confines of the home can become a little overwhelming and we need to feel the vastness of the surrounding area. There’s nothing like the freedom of a large park with a lake or even the bustling plaza of a city center.
The United States is home to many National Parks as well, and while these might not be in everybody’s immediate surroundings, most people have access to them within driving distance, but you may need to be aware that some parks might currently have restrictions in place.
Gardens
A lot of people have immediate access to their own garden and this privilege should not be taken for granted. Some people, such as those living in apartment buildings would probably kill for a garden of their own.
Getting out into your own garden, especially after you have made it the way you want it, is one of the greatest pleasures that life and nature have to offer. This is an unparalleled relaxing experience without leaving your property so make the most of it, even in Winter.
Many public gardens are accessible to those without their own space, however, you need to be aware that there might be strict measures in place in order to deal with the current situation.
I would advise checking each public garden’s individual website for details rather than your city, county or state rules.
For now, these activities will have to do as we enjoy nature with our immediate loved ones, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Use nature to its full extent during this Winter and the pandemic while you look forward to the time when we can have friends and family around again.
