The way that most humans live is a little unusual. As a creature of the earth, we belong outdoors, breathing in the fresh air and feeling the sun on our faces. In reality, at any given time, be it in the office or at home, we’re mostly indoors.
If you’re familiar with my blog and me as a person, you know too well that I absolutely thrive in a natural environment. Give me the mountains and nature over the urban life any day.
According to an article from CNBC, about 55% of the world’s population lives in an urban area. By 2050, nearly two-thirds of the world will be living within a city. If you’re a part of that majority, here are some tips to help you achieve an outdoorsy lifestyle, something I fully believe benefits you both physically and mentally.
Here’s How to Achieve an Outdoorsy Lifestyle:
Find Your Crowd
We are who we surround ourselves with and that’s why I like being around people who are equally as keen to exploring the outdoors as I am. Whether I’m hiking solo or embarking on group excursions, I find that being around people who love nature just as much as me is a way to maintain that outdoorsy lifestyle.
Invest in the Right Gear
There really is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing and gear. I was recently on a trip with a person who constantly complained about the rain and extremely snowy conditions we were in. In reality, she just wasn’t dressed for it. Spending more time in nature calls for investing in gear that will tackle every element of weather. Having the correct clothing, tools and general knowledge to navigate the outdoors will make your experience that much more enjoyable.
Check out my full nature hiking gear guide here!
Make a Commitment to the Outdoors
It’s so easy to look at the sofa and television and plop right in with a bowl of snacks. Making a commitment to the outdoors is the first place to start when adapting to that lifestyle. Instead of scanning Instagram on your phone, leave it at home and go for a walk outside. Begin making the outdoors an integral part of your existence. Consider spending the weekends camping outdoors or hiking rather than sleeping in late and staying cooped up in your house.
Get the Right Vehicle
It’s much easier to get outdoors when your vehicle is suitable for it. When I was younger, I drove around in my Mitsubishi Eclipse. This wasn’t very practical for the type of lifestyle I wanted. I recently purchased a new Jeep, allowing me to get off the beaten path into the places where my heart is happiest.
Visit Places that Encourage the Outdoors
You don’t have to hike 10 miles through a National Park to experience the outdoors. Even if you’re in an urban area, take a stroll down the street or read a book in a park to achieve the outdoorsy lifestyle. Cities today are making commitments to creating spaces outdoors, like here at the Spheres on 7th Avenue and Lenora in Seattle.
Before heading in to any natural areas, it’s imperative that you’re familiar with the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Learn more about Leave No Trace on their website here.
Read More Lifestyle Posts Here
Like This Post? Pin It!
| This post contains affiliate links which means that, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase one of these products I may receive a small commission. This helps me maintain my blog as a free space to you. Check out my Disclaimer for more info.
Cameron says
Reading this as I sit on the couch while watching tv and eating snacks…. oops! But I did get outside a lot today and it felt amazing. Great tips and love your mindset !!
thebreakofdawns says
Haha you’re my favorite. Ironically I wrote this sitting on the couch with snacks too! You’re good at getting outside for fresh air but Brody definitely helps that!
Ciara says
I really need to make more of a commitment to getting outdoors more! I feel like I spend ALL of my time inside, but in reality I know I do get out for short walks through the countryside as often as possible. I really envy all of the amazing trips and adventures you go on and you’re one of my favourite blogs to read! x
thebreakofdawns says
Girl thank you so so much for your sweet comment!! Especially working from my computer (and coming out of the winter season) I definitely feel like I spend a lot more time indoors but I thrive outside! Going on a short hike, indulging in nature, breathing in fresh air, I love every single bit of it. Appreciate you stopping by to leave a comment and I would NEVER want you to be envious of me!! I just want to inspire people to get out and see the world like I try to do! There’s nothing I enjoy more, thanks so much again girl!
Laura - Stories from a backpack says
All the pictures in this post are so beautiful!
thebreakofdawns says
Thank you Laura!