Outdoor activities
Now that summer is approaching there is no excuse to start going outside more and enjoying the nature around you. Whether it’s exercising outside, going on a walk, or working outside in the garden, being in the sun always makes everything more enjoyable. It also helps you get your Vitamin D for the day! One thing I particularly enjoy doing is cycling or traveling to new places close by and walking around. This is a good way to find hidden walking routes and mix it up with the usual walks near where you live.
Mindfulness in nature
Paying attention to nature can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with the outdoors. Try making a list of wildlife you spot or ticking off animals as you see them — you might be surprised by how much is around you. One evening, I even saw deer near the Reading University Boat Club site. Nature is often much closer than you think.
Finding objects that begin with each letter of the alphabet can also be a good way to appreciate the things around you and give you something different to think about whilst you walk.
Challenge Yourself — Anywhere, Anytime
Trying new things and making use of the equipment around you can be a fun and motivating challenge. I once tried to learn how to do a flagpole using just a lamppost — and then challenged my friends to give it a go too! Even something simple like heading to the park to practise pull-ups or see how many you can do in a minute can turn into a great way to stay active and have fun.
A constant in life
The good thing about nature is that it is always there no matter what time of day. In the evenings when things can get a bit too much, going outside to watch the sunset can be a great way to unwind. This is a small step in the right direction into making tomorrow a better day. I find exploring places with the best view to take photos of the sunset can be extremely rewarding, especially when they turn out pretty.
Spots around bodies of water are also a great to appreciate nature; specially in Reading, where we are never far away from one. From the lake on campus to the River Thames, these can be great places to bring picnics. If the weather is nice, going in can also be a fun bonus. Last summer I even tried open water swimming at Caversham Lakes. I initially found it scary, but really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend. It is a great way to exercise and chill out, is so different to pool swimming and a great way to get into something new.
I’m a rower, so I spend a lot of time outdoors which has really helped me de-stress from working and gives me a nice break from being indoors. I think being around nature really helps me be more positive, especially when the sun comes out it’s hard not to be in a good mood! Everyone has times when life gets hard, trying new things and spending time outside can be two of the best ways to get through the hard times and appreciate the good things in life.
But if things feel like to much right now, reach out to University of Reading support services which are extremely helpful and will be there when you need them. Using the new Student Wellness Check online can also help identify what might be the best support for you if you are finding things a bit overwhelming at the moment, and it doesn’t take very long to do at all!
Lara
More mental health resources:
- Support Services and Tools at the University of Reading
- UoR Guidance and Support
- Mental Health Awareness Week
- TogetherAll
- Student Wellness Check
- Blog Student Wellness Check
- Gardening at the University of Reading by Florencia Botta
- Home garden: Tips to keep in mind – Florencia Botta
- Blog: Walks at Whiteknights – Ducks, Photography and the Lake