Self-care: this is how to keep going outside during this dark period
The days are getting shorter and also colder. We make it nice and cozy inside so we don't get outside much anymore. Yet getting outside EVERY day is a habit that offers many benefits: extra fresh air, sunlight (vitamin D), our mood improves ...
But how do we make sure we get and stay motivated, even if it's rainy or cold? Well, there's a trick to that that even works with kids!
Link the moments of getting outside to something fun.
-If there are nearby animals in a meadow, pass by and watch how excited the animals are when you stop by them. Pet them (if this is allowed) and see if they have changed, if animals have added or left (count them each time!), if they have enough food ...
-go by the house they are renovating or building. See how construction is progressing and what elements have been added or changed.
-go ring the bell or say hello to the lady you hardly ever see in winter or to a family member.
-put a (homemade) card in the mailbox of someone who could use a pick-me-up.
-look for those first (Christmas) lights in the streets, on houses ...
-go see how the forest has changed, which trees are still green, what mushrooms you see ... If you want to teach children about flowers and animals along the way, let them use an app to find out the name (e.g. Obsidentify).
-guess in advance how many people you will encounter on the hike and count effectively.
Associating a goal with getting outside makes it much easier to sustain it effectively. This is how you make this a new habit! By mindfully engaging with nature, we give our heads a moment's rest and are truly present in the “now,” resulting in nothing but health benefits!
(FVDV for Tagtik/Illustration picture: Unsplash)