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Put down the phone and go outside! 5 ways the outdoors can improve your well being

Making time to go outside is good for your health!

You might have a list of things you like to do daily or weekly to take care of your mental health. Like – exercise, meditate, or journal.

Therapist Zak Hazlett says there’s one more powerful tool you might not be utilizing. It’s something that has the power to transform your overall wellbeing, and that is the great outdoors. He shared why it’s so important to make time to go outside.

 

How to Get the Most of Our Time Outside

  1. Embrace Togetherness: Leave behind your phones, work, and stress. Focus on fostering connections and being present in the moment in the great outdoors.
  2. Simplicity is Key: A leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, a visit to the local park, or a brief hike can often provide the perfect opportunity to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with each other. Remember, it doesn’t have to be an epic adventure—just a simple outdoor activity can do wonders.
  3. Understand Individual Preferences: This is particularly important when dealing with children who would rather stay on their phones. Instead of planning an extensive camping trip out of the blue, identify outdoor activities they enjoy. Be intentional and present in sharing these experiences with them.
  4. Consistency Matters: As with any endeavor, maintaining consistency over time yields the most significant benefits.
  5. Avoid Self-Pressure: Aim to engage in outdoor activities together, but remember that life happens, and plans may not always work out. Don’t stress if your plans fall through. Perhaps your planned camping trip might turn into a fun backyard campout. The key is to make the best of every situation!

For more inspiration from Zach, you can follow him on Instagram @the_outdoor_therapist or learn more about his retreats at getoutsidetogether.com.

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