7 Fun 和 Active Ways to Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Spending time outside keeps your body moving 和 is good for your soul.

There's nothing like the great outdoors—the smells, the sights, the sounds. 在大自然中, we can enjoy the beauty that surrounds us 和 be mesmerized by all this earth provides. Not only is this good for our mental health, but it gives us many opportunities to be more active.

If you're looking for a reason to get off the couch 和 move more, think of the vast 和 wonderful world outside your door. You don't need to travel far to spend time amongst Mother Nature's beauty. In many cases, you can find places right in your own neighborhood to explore.

Here are 7 ways to move more while enjoying the great outdoors: 

1. 成为一名摄影师. Grab your camera (or your phone) 和 set out to capture beautiful 和 interesting sights. Simply snap away at anything that piques your interest. The photos will be a reminder of time well spent 和 you'll probably clock more steps than you realize.
2. 收集贝壳或岩石. If you're near a beach, it's easy to walk for miles while searching for shells. It's also a great way to relax. If you're not near a beach, look for interesting rocks. Collecting a rainbow of leaves in the fall is also a fun activity that will keep you moving.
3. 种植花园. Whether you plant flowers or vegetables, the act of digging in the dirt keeps you active 和 watching something grow is very rewarding. If you don't have room for a garden in your yard, consider a container garden or look into volunteering at a community garden.
4. 探索公园. There are thous和s of state 和 local parks in the U.S. 和 most provide countless opportunities to enjoy nature. Stroll along a popular path or hike less-traveled terrain. Either way, you'll enjoy a feast for your senses while benefiting your physical 和 mental health.
5. 去玩寻宝游戏. Head out on a walk 和 see what you can find along the way. To make the activity even more fun, do it with a group 和 make a list of items to search for ahead of time. See who can find the most items on the list.
6. 放风筝. All you need is a patch of grass 和 a light wind 和 you can feel like a kid again as you work to keep your kite soaring in the sky. It's fun, relaxing 和 you'll get a few steps in while you play.
7. 徒步旅行. If you're closer to a city than a tranquil patch of green, get out 和 explore all there is to offer. You can do it on your own or sign up for a tour with a local guide. Even in your own neighborhood, you may learn about things you never knew before.