Becoming an outdoorsy person can be a rewarding journey that enhances your physical and mental well-being. It’s fun and easy to become more outdoorsy.
Become More Outdoorsy
Start out slow and find what activities are most enjoyable for you. Add outdoor activities to your daily routine, learn basic outdoor skills, and build a community of like-minded people to explore with.
From walking in a park to hiking nature trails, or even just doing things in your backyard, you’ll find you want to spend more time outdoors.
Become More Outdoorsy – How to Get Started!
1. Start Small
- Short Walks: Begin with short walks in local parks or nature trails.
- Day Hikes: Gradually increase to day hikes on beginner-friendly trails.
2. Get the Right Gear
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear weather-appropriate, comfortable clothing.
- Footwear: Invest in good hiking shoes or boots.
- Backpack: A small backpack for essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
3. Learn Basic Skills
- Navigation: Learn to read maps and use a compass or GPS.
- First Aid: Basic first aid knowledge is crucial.
- Leave No Trace: Understand the principles of minimizing your impact on nature. Leave no trace.
4. Join Groups or Classes
- Hiking Groups: Join local hiking or outdoor groups to meet like-minded people.
- Classes: Take classes or workshops on outdoor skills, such as orienteering, bird watching, or plant identification.
5. Plan Your Trips
- Research: Use websites and apps like AllTrails to find trails suitable for your skill level.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out.
- Inform: Let someone know your plans and expected return time.
6. Gradually Increase Difficulty
- Trail Difficulty: Start with easy trails and gradually move to more challenging ones.
- Duration: Extend the duration of your outdoor activities over time.
7. Diversify Your Activities
- Camping: Try overnight camping to experience the outdoors more fully.
- Other Activities: Explore other activities like kayaking, rock climbing, or mountain biking.
8. Stay Safe
- Hydration and Nutrition: Carry enough water and snacks.
- Wildlife Awareness: Know how to stay safe around wildlife.
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry a first aid kit, and know basic survival skills.
9. Embrace the Experience
- Mindfulness: Take time to appreciate the beauty of nature.
- Photography: Capture moments and landscapes to remember your adventures.
10. Reflect and Adapt
- Reflect: After each outing, reflect on what you enjoyed and what you can improve.
- Adapt: Adjust your gear, skills, and plans based on your experiences.
Becoming More Outdoorsy – Resources and Tools
I highly recommend reading “A Walk in the Woods” by Bill Bryson and “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed. They’re two of my favorite books about outdoor adventures!
A great website that also has an excellent phone app is AllTrails. You can find new places nearby for taking walks at your skill level.
By starting small, learning gradually, and immersing yourself in the experience, you’ll soon find yourself becoming a more confident and enthusiastic outdoorsy person.
We all had to start somewhere, and there’s no better place than your own backyard!
