The world seemed to stop as public domains accommodated to government mandates when a full-force pandemic spread throughout the globe. An average person’s daily habits and activities were suddenly shocked, slowing down significantly as we adapted to change. Restrictions set in place to slow the spread of an unfamiliar virus meant that nothing would be the same…
People’s hope in perseverance for overcoming this pandemic has had a positive impact though. Instead of relying on external sources for physical, mental and emotional health (like going to the gym, to a restaurant and other entertainment), some people have been “re-connecting,” with their long-lost friend, Nature. Taking unto the outdoors to avoid human contact, many people have taken an interest in recreational outdoor activities. In the past few months, I’ve seen more people on mountain bikes, floating the river, fishing, running and hiking trails in the mountains than ever before
There is something special about letting the sun’s beams hit you while struggling through the workout of a lifetime. Something that is said to improve mental and emotional stability is being out in nature. Views of the tall green mountains, the sound of the river rushing, birds’ harmonies and even feeling the wind blow provides a sense of relief. When one steps back to look at the wonderful planet we live on, a familiar feeling indorses somewhat of a primal instinct and allows a true breath of fresh air to occur. And although many individuals struggle with change, it’s worth a try to get out and be active. So many beneficial opportunities lie in the open space of freedom we forgot existed and there is so much to do.
This summer has been fantastic for me as an outdoorsman. I’ve gained a stronger relationship with the river, been able to perform a more conscious golf swing, and became humbled by Earth’s challenges. All returning to the conscious and realizing how grateful I am to be alive.
Some great recreational outings and activities to consider trying are:
Fly Fishing, Golfing, Trail Running, and Gardening.
– Fly fishing the Provo River in Utah has not only gotten me out there, but it has taught me patience. Wading in the river for hours, strategizing which flies to use, studying and applying the techniques that the sport requires has been so satisfying when eventually getting a fish on. The sport’s technicality and learning-curve has made it desirable to learn the ropes. The best parts about fly fishing is being surrounded by epic landscapes, natural river flows and being a part of nature itself.
– Golf may be one of the most unpredictable sports as far as difficulty goes. It looks so easy watching Tiger Woods swing a club, but when you get out on a Par 3 and tee off, you realize there is a lot more to it than hitting a ball. Golf is a great way to get in touch with your emotions, get some exercise and spend quality time with your loved ones.
– Trails can be found almost anywhere, even in bigger cities. I love running on trails because it makes me think quickly about my next step. As you begin, even walking can
be a great way to clear your mind and get back in touch with yourself. Nature’s treadmill that actually challenges you with increases in elevation and rugged terrain is the way to do it to avoid crowded gyms.
– Gardening sounds like dirty work and people often neglect doing. It’s pure laziness for one, fully capable of mowing their own lawn to not get out there and do it themselves. Planting a garden was literally evolutionary, and if you didn’t do it your family could starve. Reclaim the land and nurture it back to life, and you yourself with reap its benefits.
These are a few things I’ve been up to this summer since traveling has become less desirable because of this pandemic. A lot of people feeling stuck, not being able to go on vacation and pouting that there is “nothing to do,” can refer to the list above. It’s easy to make excuses as to why you haven’t been active and been getting out of shape. You are the one holding yourself back. Get back in touch with yourself and let nature heal, you won’t regret it.