As most of us have been staying inside during these difficult times, it can be challenging to find the motivation to spend time outdoors. From hiking, walking, swimming, or simply enjoying the fresh air in your backyard, the options are limitless when it comes to enjoying nature. That said, some students are getting creative in the ways they’re getting their Vitamin D.
“Recently I have been running, doing some pool workouts, and hiking,” freshman cross country runner Matilda Fitzgerald said. “My favorite places to run at the moment are [at] Wildwood trails, Waverly Community Park, Satwiwa State Park, and the bike path near the Thousand Oaks Library. I also really love running along the shoreline at the beach, it’s just really grounding!”
Many students have been exercising to stay in shape for either sports or personal reasons, and doing it outside benefits both your mental and physical health. Not only do you get to enjoy the crisp air, but also the change of scenery. Just remember to always stay at least six feet away from other people and wear a mask to have fun while staying safe.
“I’ve been going on walks everyday with my mom and dog and I’ve been working out everyday in my backyard,” sophomore Janely Fernandez said.
Even if you aren’t able to go to hiking trails or the beach, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy nature all around you. In times like these, it can be hard to remember all that we have to be grateful for, as well as how much beauty is in our own neighborhoods.
“I haven’t really done hikes, but I go on walks with my cousin and I play with my dogs in the backyard for fresh air and exercise,” sophomore Vivian Jewett said. “I haven’t done too many things outside because I would need to drive there and my parents are busy working a lot of the time.”
A great way to fit some nature into your schedule is to make breakfast, lunch, or dinner and have a picnic or barbecue outside with your family — or alone. If you find yourself bored, invite a sibling or parent to paint, play board games, or play basketball in the backyard. If you don’t have a backyard or front yard to enjoy, simply stepping outside the doorstep and taking in the world around you is enough to put a smile on your face.