INSIDE: Want to enjoy the outdoor this summer as much as possible? Use these tips on how to spend time in nature to help you make the most of it!

 

Are you ready to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer?

Spending time in nature can be a great way to recharge and connect with the natural world around us. As summer approaches, there are many ways to take advantage of the warm weather and spend time outside.

From reducing stress and improving mood to promoting creativity and boosting the immune system, there are endless benefits to getting outside and enjoying the great outdoors. 

How to Spend Time in Nature This Summer

Whether you're reading a book in the morning sun or walking barefoot in your yard, we've compiled some of our favorite outdoor activities that can be enjoyed solo or with friends and family. They offer a range of benefits from relaxation to exercise to community building. 

Let's get to it and explore 15 different ways to connect with nature so you can make the most of your summer...

Read a Book in the Early Morning Sun

Reading a book in the early morning sun can be a wonderful way to start your day. The cool, calm air of the morning can help you relax and unwind before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. Whether you prefer fiction or nonfiction, taking the time to read can provide an escape from the stresses of everyday life.

You might consider bringing a light snack or a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy while you read. We love to bring summer crystals with us to place on us or around us as we read. Additionally, consider choosing a book that's appropriate for the environment, such as a nature-focused book since you're reading outside.

Do a Craft Outside 

Doing a craft outside can be a great way to enjoy the fresh air and nature while engaging in a creative activity. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting out, there are many crafts that can be done outdoors. 

For example, painting landscapes or botanicals can be a great way to connect with nature while also honing your artistic skills. Knitting or crocheting in the shade of a tree can provide a peaceful atmosphere for crafting. Woodworking can also be done outdoors, whether it's carving or building a piece of furniture.

Outdoor crafts can inspire creativity and provide a change of scenery that can be refreshing for your mind and spirit.

Go Hiking

Hiking is a fantastic way to experience the great outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. There are a wide variety of trails and paths to explore, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes up steep hills and mountains.

Before heading out on a hike, it's important to do some research on the trail you plan to take. This can include checking the difficulty level, the length of the trail, and any special considerations, such as weather conditions or restrictions.

It's also important to wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated during your hike.

Try preparing some sun-charged water the day before your hike and bring that with you to supercharge your energy.

Eat Dinner on the Patio

Eating dinner on the patio or in your backyard can be a delightful way to enjoy the warm summer evenings and take in the natural surroundings. To set the stage for a cozy and inviting dinner, consider adding some outdoor lighting such as string lights, lanterns, or candles.

You can also add some plants or flowers to your patio or backyard to create an even more enjoyable ambiance. Choose a comfortable seating area such as a table and chairs or a picnic blanket for a more casual feel.

As for the meal, you can either cook outside on a grill or prepare a meal indoors and bring it outside. We love eating high vibrational foods when we dine outside.

Start a Garden

Gardening is a wonderful way to get in touch with nature and enjoy the beauty and bounty of the outdoors. The first step in starting a garden is to choose a suitable location that gets enough sunlight and has good soil drainage.

If you have a backyard, you might consider building a raised bed or preparing a section of your lawn for planting. If you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, you might opt for container gardening on a balcony or porch.

Once you have chosen the location, it's time to select the plants you want to grow. Think about what kind of plants thrive in your area and what you would like to harvest. You can start with easy-to-grow plants like herbs, cherry tomatoes, and lettuce. More challenging crops include things like peppers and melons.

Do Yoga Outside

Doing yoga outside can provide a unique and rejuvenating experience as it allows you to connect with nature while practicing mindfulness and movement. Find a quiet spot in a park, your backyard, or near a lake or beach, and bring a yoga mat or a blanket.

As you start your yoga practice, take a few moments to connect with the natural surroundings and focus on your breath. Let go of any distractions and simply be present in the moment.

The fresh air, sunshine, and natural sounds can enhance your yoga experience and help you feel more grounded and centered. Even better, bring some yoga crystals with you!

Have a Neighborhood Block Party 

Having a neighborhood block party can be a great way to strengthen community bonds and enjoy the summer air.

Start by reaching out to your neighbors and inviting them to participate. Choose a date and time that works well for everyone, and decide on a location - perhaps a common area in your neighborhood or someone's backyard.

To make the party a success, consider planning a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share, or provide food and drinks for everyone. You can also set up games and activities for both kids and adults, such as a cornhole tournament or a water balloon toss.

As you plan your block party, be mindful of any noise and traffic concerns and obtain any necessary permits or permissions from your local authorities.

Take Family Walks After Dinner

Taking family walks after dinner is not only a great way to enjoy the outdoors but also a healthy way to get some exercise and connect with your family. Make it a routine by setting aside time after dinner for a walk and getting everyone in the family involved.

Choose a scenic route in your neighborhood or a nearby park, and take your time as you walk and chat with each other. Encourage everyone to put away their phones and other distractions, and focus on being present in the moment.

To make the walk more enjoyable, consider bringing along a snack or some water, or stopping to play a game or explore a new trail. You can also use this time to teach your kids about the plants and animals you encounter on your walk, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature together.

Take a Day Trip to the Beach or a Lake

Taking a day trip to the beach or lake is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of nature during summer. Whether you prefer the salty waves of the ocean or the calm waters of a lake, spending a day near the water can be incredibly refreshing.

Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks, bring some beach towels, and get ready to soak up the sun. Take a dip in the water to cool off, build sandcastles, or simply lay out and relax. Spending time at the beach or lake can be a great way to escape the stresses of daily life and enjoy the natural beauty around us.

Go to a Park for a Picnic

Going to a park for a picnic is a great way to spend time in nature with your loved ones. Not only does it offer a chance to enjoy some delicious food, but it also allows you to take in the beautiful scenery and fresh air of the park. You can set up your picnic blanket under a tree for some shade or in an open field for a more expansive view.

Bring some games or a book to enjoy after your meal, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the natural surroundings. Many parks also offer amenities such as playgrounds, hiking trails, and wildlife observation areas, so there are plenty of options for activities.

Kick a Ball Around With Your Kids

Kicking a ball around with your kids is a great way to get some exercise and spend quality time with your family. It's a fun and easy way to encourage your kids to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air. You don't need a lot of equipment - just a ball and some open space. Find a nearby park or open field and let your kids run wild.

Playing sports with your kids can also help them develop important physical and social skills, such as coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship. So, next time you're looking for a fun activity to do with your kids, grab a ball and head outside!

Pick Wildflowers

Picking wildflowers is a simple yet enjoyable way to connect with nature. It can be a meditative activity that allows you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. You can take a leisurely stroll through a nearby field or meadow and pick some wildflowers along the way. 

Make sure to only pick flowers from areas where it is allowed and where there are plenty to go around, leaving some for other nature lovers to enjoy. Once you've gathered your bouquet, take it home and arrange the flowers in a vase to enjoy their natural beauty in your home. Alternatively, you can give the bouquet as a thoughtful and personal gift to a friend or loved one.

Watch a Sunset or Sunrise

Watching a sunset or sunrise can be a simple yet powerful way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty. There's something truly magical about seeing the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors as the sun sets or rises.

To fully enjoy this experience, find a quiet spot in nature such as a beach, park, or hilltop where you can have an unobstructed view of the horizon. Bring a chair or a blanket to sit on and some snacks or hot beverages to enjoy while you wait for the sun to set or rise.

Go Fishing

Fishing is a popular outdoor activity that can be both relaxing and enjoyable. It offers a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and spend time in nature. Fishing can be done in various bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and ponds, and it can be done alone or with family and friends.

The process of fishing itself, such as setting up your fishing gear and baiting your hook, can be meditative, and the act of waiting for a fish to bite can be a peaceful and patient experience. Additionally, fishing can provide a sense of accomplishment when you catch a fish, making it a rewarding activity. 

Walk Barefoot in Your Yard

Walking barefoot on grass or soil in your yard can provide a deep sense of connection with nature. It can be a simple yet grounding experience that allows you to feel more present and mindful. The sensation of the earth under your feet can stimulate your senses and provide a relaxing sensation.

Walking barefoot can also help you absorb negative ions from the earth, which can have a positive impact on your mood and overall well-being. Moreover, walking barefoot outside can be a fun and refreshing way to enjoy nature without needing any special equipment or preparation. It's a great way to get in touch with the earth and yourself. 

Final Thoughts 

In conclusion, spending time in nature is a wonderful way to improve our physical and mental health, connect with others, and appreciate the beauty of the world around us. From hiking and gardening to picnicking and fishing, there are countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors and reap the benefits of being in nature.

So, this summer, take the time to get outside and explore all that nature has to offer. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy it and how rejuvenating it can be for your mind, body, and soul.

* Crystals and stones should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Please read our full disclosure notice here.