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I’m not sure about you, but I’ve been feeling even more stir crazy and anxious than usual. Especially since I can’t travel.
Traveling has always been one of my outlets that helps me manage stress and maintain my mental health. It gives me the opportunity to be in a new environment and take my mind off the everyday things that bring me stress.
If you're finding it harder than usual to manage anxiety and your mental health due to restrictions from this pandemic, you're not alone.
But it’s more important than ever to find alternate ways for us to get that adventurous experience and have a mental outlet. That’s why I’ve created this list of local and at-home activities to help you get your travel fix and manage your mental health.
It’s known that spending time outdoors has a positive impact on both health and mental wellness. Scientific studies have found that green exercise (activities done in a natural environment) not only lowers blood pressure but also reduces cortisol levels, your body’s main stress hormone.
Not only will this change in scenery be refreshing, but it’s much easier to manage social distancing requirements. Below are some ideas to get you out of the house safely:
Before heading out, make sure your local park or hiking trail is open. Please abide by social distancing rules and make any reservations that may be required to visit.
That itch to travel may feel stronger than ever. Luckily, technology makes it even easier for us to explore new cultures and adventure the world from the comforts of our home. Here’s how:
Just because we can’t travel doesn’t mean we are completely deprived of the opportunity to learn new cultures. Why not bring those experiences home? You can:
Live nature cams and outdoor films can really make it forget that you’re at home. You’ll feel like you’re right there, up in all the action. This is an opportunity to get a mental break of reality and just escape to a new world.
The ongoing pandemic has been a stressful period of time for many, including me. Especially since many of my mental outlets, like traveling and going to the gym, are no longer available. It’s easy to feel anxiety and loneliness. And if you are experiencing this, know that you’re not alone.
However, we can adapt to our new normal and find other ways to scratch that travel itch and manage our mental health.
We can begin integrating outdoor activities into our normal day routine (like daily walks, doing yoga in the park or hiking the local trails) and take advantage of virtual opportunities. Why not virtually tour the Louvre on Monday, hop over to Hawaii’s Volcano National Park Tuesday or try cooking authentic paella in your own kitchen.
I hope this guide helps you find refreshing adventures that takes your mind off some of the uncertainty we are experiencing.
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But real talk: the outdoors can be intimidating. So I'm on a mission to empower you to find your confidence to adventure more. From beginner hiking tips to learning how to travel on a budget, I've got you. Whatever your adventure and whatever your skill level, I'm here to HYPE YOU UP!
So what're you waiting for? Let's get out there and do this sh*t!