As our lives become more fast-paced and intertwined with technology, our time spent outdoors decreases while our stress levels increase. Research has shown that intentionally getting outside among nature can positively impact our health and how we manage stress. According to the American Psychological Association1, “spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health and emotional well-being.” Try these five simple outdoor activities for a mental break and better stress management.

  1. Hike or Walk

Take a short walk outside on your lunch break or go for a longer hike at a nearby park on the weekend. Regardless of the distance, walking is beneficial for enjoying nature and increasing your physical activity. Both approaches can have a significant impact on managing your daily stress. Consider skipping the headphones and allow yourself to practice being more present by noticing what you see, hear, smell, and touch in nature.

  1. Practice Outdoor Yoga

Grab a yoga mat or a beach towel, and bring your yoga practice outside. Yoga promotes physical and mental relaxation by incorporating focused movements, stretches, and breathing exercises. By taking your practice outside, you can distance yourself from day-to-day distractions. Join an outdoor yoga class, utilize an app, or practice a flow that you already know.

  1. Tend a Garden

Gardening can be a relaxing and physically demanding activity. It teaches patience, persistence, and fruitful outcomes. Enjoy the process of digging, planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting as you grow and tend to your garden. It will be an activity that encourages regular outdoor movement all season long and can serve as a habitual moment of relaxation each day.

  1. Watch a Sunrise or Sunset

Few things cause us to slow down and stop in our tracks like the colors of a sunrise or a sunset can. It serves as a moment of reflection as we begin or wind down the day. Observing the beauty, colors, and intricacies seen in the sky allows us to become more intensely present in our surroundings. Intentionally being more present helps calm wandering or worrisome thoughts, allowing us to focus on the here and now.

  1. Be Creative

Let your creativity wander in nature. Slow down and gather inspiration from being outdoors. If you’re feeling crafty, consider sketching, painting, or drawing. If art isn’t your thing or you are short on time, try journaling for a few minutes. You certainly do not need to be a professional artist or writer, and there is no need to show anyone your work. Give your mind a much-needed break from daily stress by turning your attention to something more imaginative and innovative.

Continue Reading June 2025 Newsletter: Managing Stress with Mindful Eating