March 21, 2019
Whether you’re a stay at home parent, CEO, or work the 9 to 5 grind, every one of us needs time to recharge and reconnect with ourselves. Stress isn’t selective, we all suffer from its effects through the seasons of life. What we do have control over is how we soothe our mind, body, and spirit, and grounding ourselves is key to nipping the physical and mental impacts of stress.
One of our favorite ways to recharge and feel grounded is by elevating our green time. Spending time in nature is a wonderful way to shed stress, returning to our lives clearheaded and ready to take on whatever life is throwing our way.
Here are our favorite ways to get in a regular dose of necessary green time in our busy schedules.
Go For A Nature Walk
A local park, the forest, nearby lake or ocean, getting fresh air while surrounded by nature is one of the most soothing experiences. And it most cases, it’s completely free! Whether you choose to listen to the natural sounds of birds chirping and water flowing or listening to your favorite podcast, you’ll find yourself much calmer by the end of your walk.
Take A Scenic Drive Or Cycling Ride
Sometimes seeing nature’s beauty from your car or bike can be just as invigorating, allowing you to see the world around you in ways you may not have seen on foot. A quick Google search for nearby scenic routes will provide you with a list of new areas waiting to be explored by wheel.
Walk Barefoot In The Grass Or Sand
A little hippie earth love never hurt anyone! Take off your shoes and enjoy the feel of soft green grass under your feet or the natural exfoliation of sand under your toes. A simple act of feeling grounded without shoes can be the perfect reset your mind needed.
At The Very Least Get Out In Sunshine
Perhaps your free time is limited and finding the time to pencil in these ideas stresses you out more! When life is too busy and carving out me-time is challenging, spend your free moments soaking up sunshine. A quick walk down the street, a park bench, whatever works for you. Sometimes a little sun is the pick me up you didn’t realize you needed.
Now what if you’re in an urban area and don’t have easy access to parks, forests or oceans? Don’t you worry, we have suggestions for you, too! Sometimes you have to make do with what’s available and it can be just as effective in soothing your stress.
Take Your Work Poolside
In a pinch, working poolside during the day while the rest of the world is at work and school can feel like a recharge. The combination of sunshine and running water is soothing and makes work much more enjoyable. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Create Green Space In Your Apartment
Trust us, we get it, we’ve lived in places without easy access to nature! Creating a soothing space in your home can provide you with a quick escape. We love the idea of bringing in big, green plants and a simple indoor water fountain to soothe stress. Whether you turn your entire space into a green time refuge or only have a small bit of space to work with, these enhancements to your home will trick you into thinking you’re on a lush, green getaway. Spa music is optional but highly encouraged for the ultimate release.
Plan A Weekend Getaway
Since the inception of Airbnb, finding a quiet cozy cottage or cabin nestled in your scenery of choice has never been easier. Turn off your devices, detach from the rest of the world, and re-energize your body in the ultimate green time getaway. Seaside, tucked away in the mountains, or the quiet of the barren desert. The possibilities are endless!