Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Multiple studies have shown that being outside reduces stress, improves your mood, and can even reduce your risk of developing certain psychological disorders.
Physically, being outdoors can lower your blood pressure, give you more energy, improve heart health, and much more. It might sound like an infomercial, but nature truly is one of the greatest healers available.
Whether you’re already a nature buff trying to think of more activities you can enjoy outside or you know you need to experience the great outdoors more than you already are, let’s cover some outdoor hobbies that can improve both your physical and mental well-being.
Horseback Riding
There’s a reason why animal therapies are gaining popularity across the globe. Equine therapy has become especially popular, even for people who have no prior experience with horses. It helps to build trust, improve confidence, and reduce anxiety.
Horseback riding can provide similar mental health benefits while boosting your mood, improving your focus, and helping you to step outside your comfort zone to try something different.
If you’re already a frequent horseback rider, you can boost your physical and mental health even more by setting up a home gym to gain more strength, stability, and stamina. You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment for an effective gym — you only need a few basics, including:
- Mirrors
- Wall space
- Mats
- Bands
- Kettlebells
- Weighted balls
When you have the right equipment at home, it’s easy to establish a health and fitness routine you can stick to every day without having to utilize a public gym.
Metal Detecting
The thrill of hunting for buried treasure isn’t something that disappears once you reach adulthood. While you might not be looking for a chest full of gold, there’s still something exciting about metal detecting and not knowing what “treasures” you might find in the dirt or sand. Plus, it’s great for both your physical and mental health. It’s a wonderful way to relax, spend a lot of time walking, and enjoy the natural healing power of nature.
Consider heading to the nearest beach with your metal detector and you’ll experience even more relaxation along with your exploration.
Cycling
Cycling is one of the best outdoor activities for your physical and mental health. Almost anyone can do it because it’s easy on the joints, and you can enjoy health benefits like:
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Improved stamina
- Boosted energy
- Stronger bones
- Greater joint mobility
Cycling is also a natural stress reliever, and if you choose to do it with friends or family, it can boost your bond and help to combat loneliness and isolation.
Hiking
If there’s a physical activity that will make you feel more immersed in nature than hiking, we aren’t sure what it is.
Hitting the trail and surrounding yourself with trees, native plants, and wildlife is a fantastic way to reduce stress, deal with anxiety, and improve your mood. Plus, it’s a great workout. Not only will you burn a lot of calories, but you’ll build stamina and strength, especially if you’re carrying a backpack.
Whether you try some solo hikes or head out with friends, it provides the opportunity to “disconnect” from this tech-forward world we’re living in, and reconnect with the peace and quiet of nature. If you’ve ever felt as though you needed to hit a reset button to avoid burning out, hiking is one of the best ways to do it.
These suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to outdoor hobbies that improve your mental and physical health. At the end of the day, hobbies are meant to be enjoyed. Choose something that’s fun and exciting for you, and you’re more likely to stick with it long enough to enjoy the benefits.
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