If you’ve been in a physical or emotional rut lately, try spending more time in the great outdoors! Fresh air and exercise are great for your overall well-being, and picking up a new hobby will help you flex mental muscles you haven’t used in a while.
Feeling stumped about what to do once you leave the house? Take inspiration from this guide on new hobbies to try that will get you outdoors.
Stargazing
All you need to get started with this hobby is a clear night sky. If you live in an area with heavy light pollution at night, head out to a forest preserve or park in a quieter area. Learn more about the constellations and how to identify them, and keep the moon phases marked on your calendar for prime viewing.
Wildlife Photography
Wildlife doesn’t just include lions, tigers, and bears—it’s all around us! Take your camera out for a nature walk, and snap photos of the creatures you see. You’ll learn more about your local species of birds, mammals, and even insects as you improve your photography skills.
Sport Fishing
Even if you don’t consider yourself an athletic type, sport fishing is a great hobby in which you can challenge yourself in a low-stakes setting. All you need is a fishing license, a rod, some bait, and an accessible body of water! You can go out alone and set challenges for yourself or take friends and family out for a day of friendly competition.
Foraging
Get to know the plants that grow in your area because, chances are, many of them are safe to eat! Go on regular nature walks, and with the help of a botany field guide or app, practice identifying the plants you see. Several common plant species, such as dandelions and nettles, are not only edible—they’re highly nutritious!
Safety Tip
When you’re just getting started, consider going on guided walks with an experienced botanist. Learn to identify and steer clear of poisonous plants before you start foraging for your next salad.
Archery
Humans have practiced archery for sport and survival for thousands of years. Become a living part of that history by visiting an archery range or setting one up in your own backyard! Build up your patience and confidence in yourself as you do your daily target practice.
Heading out of the house regularly can feel daunting if you’ve been in a rut for a while. However, the outdoor world has a great deal to offer you! Take advantage of the beauty and vast expanse of nature by getting outdoors and trying one of these hobbies to give your mental health a reset.
