Tired of being cooped up in the house all day? Here’s good news for you! The start of spring calls for more than just the blossoming of flowers. It calls for the end of winters and the start of the utility of the great outdoors.
A little sunlight and fresh air are key to maintaining physical and mental health during these troubled times of Covid-19 and social distancing. Proximity to nature helps improve psychological well-being and spending time in the sun improves mood through enhanced serotonin levels.
While going out to parties and socialising may not be in the cards, for now, there are still many ways to enjoy the outdoors at home while being 6 feet away.
Outdoor lounge
Sick of sitting in your lounge all day staring at screens? Why not create an outdoor lounge? For outdoor decor, all ll it will take is some comfortable furniture, a few throw pillows and some lighting to make your exotic staycation a reality. You can either search the internet for all sorts of exciting furniture such as chairs, hammocks and outdoor sectionals or you can take matters into your own hands and activate the DIY guru to upcycle existing furniture. Either way, a comfortable seating arrangement will allow better use of the outdoor space.
While choosing furniture, it is important to take notice of the material used. Most materials will wither away under extreme conditions such as rain or direct sunlight so it is best to stick to steel, teak or wicker for durability. When basic furniture is acquired, the lounge can be spiced up by adding a few side tables, fairy lights, outdoor plants and some scented candles to create an amazing hideaway.
Meditation zone
Missing your yoga or meditation classes? Worry no more! An outdoor meditation studio is a perfect remedy for the dilemma. Lay a yoga mat, plant a floral bed, play some therapeutic music and voila! You have set up the ultimate meditation zone to help you de-stress. The experience will be relaxing and will invigorate your mind by injecting positive energy.
Have you tried cooking on your lawn or balcony? Imagine this! It’s a cool breezy evening. The roses are in full bloom. The speakers have your favourite song on and your family is around you laughing and joking, reminiscing the days gone by. You get up to start the barbecue in order to make some mouth-watering chops.
The exercise not only provides an enriching opportunity to be around loved ones but also encourages a robust lifestyle by making use of the grill to help prepare healthy meats. It eliminates the use of fatty oils and maintains naturally occurring nutrients like riboflavin and thiamine which are greatly beneficial for the nervous system.
Outdoor Movie Theatre
Do you remember the time before cell phones and TVs? Ever wondered what our sources of entertainment were? They came from being outdoors! But now, the tables have turned and entertainment is usually linked to some form of a digital screen. While going to the cinema is not an option during these times of social distancing but it does not mean that one cannot replicate the experience in one’s own backyard. In fact, a batch of caramel popcorn, a warm blanket and starry night provide the perfect ambience to enjoy any movie. However, to create the perfect outdoor movie theatre, one requires the right set up to make the dream a reality.
The following is a checklist to help sort the logistics:
- A screen
- A projector
- Video sources like computer or DVD
- Cables – HDMI and audio connections
- Power source
- Speakers
Gardening
Gardening is another fun way to enjoy the outdoors during COVID-19. The process can be soothing and engaging and allows one to make better use of one’s time. But first, take out your notebook and try to understand your outdoor space. Does space get enough sunlight? Is it covered or receives direct sunlight? What are the weather conditions? What type of plants will thrive in the present conditions? All these questions will allow one to take on the task from a better standpoint.
Backyard Camping
If you have space to spare, set up a tent to enjoy a summer camp experience with your kids, siblings or partner. Add a bonfire to that and the experience will be a unique getaway within the confines of your home. It will not only allow you to step back and truly enjoy the present moment but it will also awaken your subconscious mind to allow you to reflect on your life. The slowing down of pace will enable you to reconfigure your life and set new goals for your future.
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