These days, it seems impossible to shut off your brain. There are constant happenings in the world and so many tasks to fit into your daily schedule. It’s challenging to find a moment to breathe and enjoy some time outdoors!

We all deserve to be nurtured by nature when we’re feeling blue, depressed, anxious or experiencing a stressful time in our lives. According to a study published by the American Psychological Association, getting some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is crucial to mental health. 

Whether you’re an active runner or someone who would like to sit in a park and enjoy some alone time for a while, there are plenty of open green spaces and recreational areas to enjoy. 

We’ve compiled a list of outdoor activities to help you alleviate anxiety and get a well-deserved dose of quiet time! 

Go for a Walk 

You might not be feeling up for a jog or run, but a brisk walk dowsing in some sunshine is perfect for those looking for something low-key, relaxing, and low intensity. Aside from the mental health benefits, walking can help improve sleep and mood, provide stress relief, and increase stamina and energy! 

Walking can help decrease the likelihood of developing certain heart conditions. Experts often recommend it as an exercise for those who can’t handle high-intensity workouts. 

Try not to think so much while on your walk. You can enjoy the sound of nature or tune out with some music. Have a furry friend? Bring them along with you for an extra mood boost. Most parks are pet friendly, but check to ensure that the park or trail you’re going to doesn’t have any specific rules or guidelines for pets. 

Ride a Bike

Another low-impact exercise, biking (or cycling) is one of the highest recommended activities for people of all ages and abilities. Indoor cycling has become a prevalent form of exercise with several health benefits ranging from an overall improvement in mental health to various physical advantages. 

Although indoor cycling has gained momentum, riding a bike outdoors can be a more enjoyable and relaxing experience than in an indoor environment. Bike riding can help improve joint mobility, coordination, and posture and has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

In addition, biking can be as intense or low-key as desired. Whether you want to take a slow bike ride by a lake or speed up at a trail, it’s one of the most versatile options. 

Outdoor Yoga 

Whether you’re a yoga newbie or an experienced yogi, outdoor yoga hits differently than taking a class in a studio or gym. Yoga, in general, has been shown to help with flexibility, metabolism balance, and improved mood. Experts highly recommend it, especially for those who want to combat anxiety and step into a more grounded space. 

But imagine doing yoga while breathing in the fresh air outside, birds singing, and feeling totally refreshed by the beautiful summer breeze in Michigan! 

Journal or Meditate 

Perhaps you’re not in the mood to do much and prefer a more sedentary activity. Journaling and mediation are two activities that experts recommend to fight anxiety and depression. Journaling your thoughts down in writing can help you catch unhealthy thought patterns, lay out what’s been on your mind, and help you get a better understanding of your inner self. 

Along with journaling, meditation is a challenging yet calming way to practice mindfulness and get a clearer picture of where your mind is lingering. What’s been on your mind the most? Where are your priorities right now? Grab a notebook and some paper, a cozy blanket, snacks, and water for a sunny afternoon in the park. 

Anxiety affects many individuals. It’s hard not to feel worried or distressed about the state of the world right now, along with so much expectation weighing down on all of us! Take some time for yourself to get out and about to help your brain find some peace of mind! 

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This content is brought to you by Metroparks. One of America’s premier metropolitan park systems, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks have served the people of Southeast Michigan since 1940. Managed by the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority, the Metroparks are made up of 13 properties in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties. The Metroparks are open 365 days a year and encompass 25,000 acres of nature and recreational facilities. Each year more than 1.5 million people engage with the Metroparks to enjoy amenities such as picnicking, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, nature study, biking, golf, disc golf, cross country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and a diversity of outdoor programs and special events. The Metroparks also provide educational resources on science, nature, history and the environment. Learn more at Metroparks.com.