Written by Shelby Deering
I’ve never been a fan of crowds, even in a pre-pandemic world. As an
empath, being in a crowd can be overwhelming. The loud noises. The
unexpected bumping and “Pardon me’s.” All those individual energies in one
space has always been a bit too much for me.
Now, in 2020,
crowds are discouraged in favor of social distancing. The majority of
summer events have been canceled. Crowded environments will be few and far
between for the foreseeable future.
While this is a naturally
challenging time for many, the pandemic also provides us with an
opportunity for reflection, particularly in outdoor locales. Outdoor
retreats free of crowds can offer a healthy dose of restoration that can
help us to be mindful, too.
In other words? As many of us
already know, nature is good for the soul. Outdoor activities are
encouraged, and while a number of people might still be visiting those
destinations, social distancing should prevent crowds.
This has
definitely been a difficult year, but in the midst of it, we all have an
opportunity to rest, reflect and appreciate quiet, mindful moments.
If you’re searching for outdoor experiences that are a bit off
the beaten path, where you can truly soak up the crowd-free tranquility,
to help you be more mindful and in the moment, here are some ideas to get
you started.
Public Gardens
Since many people are
opting for state and national parks these days, I have found that small
public gardens have been a peaceful respite instead. There’s a university
research garden located nearby that’s free of charge and often without
other people. I love to walk the rows and rows of flowers and vegetables,
seeing what’s in bloom this week and turning it into a sensory experience
filled with lovely sights and scents. And as many people have been
discovering lately,
a little time in the garden
is really good for the soul.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
From gardens built for honeybees and butterflies to areas
dedicated to threatened birds, reptiles and other animals, a wildlife
sanctuary can be a place where you can connect with nature and unwind. In
addition to supporting endangered species with an entrance fee or
donation, you can unplug and spend the day spotting animals instead.
Outdoor
Yoga
Since the pandemic first started, I’ve rarely exercised
indoors. Instead, I take my workouts to my deck, where I watch
instructor-led videos on my tablet and listen to music. I’m used to my hot
yoga studio, so moving outside on my own has definitely been a more
mindful experience. Whether it’s your backyard or a nearby park, try an
outdoor yoga workout to boost those relaxed, blissed-out vibes. And
depending on where your outdoors is located, maybe you can also enjoy the
calming soundtrack of nature.
Forest Bathing
Speaking of nature’s calming
force, have you tried forest bathing? Otherwise known as shinrin-yoku,
it’s the Japanese practice of immersing yourself in trees, mindfully
appreciating their beauty and wisdom. I had the chance to go on a hike
last year with a professional forest therapy guide, and the experience was
indeed calming and enlightening. Forest bathing can be done anywhere - “in
a state park, a local park or even a tree-lined street. Simply put away
your phone, turn off any music and slowly walk among the trees as you reap
the mental health benefits.
Stargazing
When was the
last time you went stargazing? When I was little, I loved nothing more
than to pull out my telescope and watch the shooting stars as they
streaked across the sky. Relive those magical memories from your childhood
and cherish the wonder of nature, too. Seek out a low-light locale, take a
family member along and use an old-school guide to the constellations to
point them out in the sky. It’s a beautiful, and mindful, way to spend an
evening.