woman shwing how to relax in nature by hiking

How to Relax in Nature

Jane Marsh - February 9, 2023

We are reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn affiliate commission.

Spending time in nature has many health benefits. It allows your body to soak up vitamin D and be more active. The outdoors can also improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress. So, here are a few tips for how to relax in nature. 

1. Admire the Sunrise or Sunset 

One way to enjoy nature is through a stunning backdrop. So, get off your phone and head to the nearest hilltop to watch the sunrise or set. It can be a relaxing way to start or end your day. 

You can bring along a family member or take a few moments of solitude. Being alone can help you collect your thoughts. Plus, you’ll have beautiful sunset pictures for your social media or camera roll. 

2. Take a Walk

Walking is an excellent way to get in your daily exercise. You need 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. There are many ways to achieve this goal. Head to your local park, garden or nature preserve. If you want to be more active, look for nearby hiking trails. You can even use the walk as motivation to achieve your fitness goals. 

Also, you don’t have to have a particular destination in mind. Consider walking around your neighborhood or a close-by wooded area. Then just aimlessly wander for a little bit. 

3. Meditate or Do Yoga 

Meditation can help to clear the mind and allow you to refocus. Listen to the calming sounds of nature, like running water and birds chirping. Leave your phone at home and find a quiet spot to practice some breathing exercises. 

Yoga is another peaceful activity that encourages the mind and body connection. It also offers health benefits like stretching and improving core strength. Instead of going to the gym, make your backyard the new workout spot. It will provide a beautiful backdrop to get yourself in the right mindset. 

4. Work or Study Outside 

This is a tip for how to relax in nature that also encourages productivity. Spending time outside calms your mind, making you more efficient. Natural light can also enhance cognitive abilities such as memory. This helps you retain essential details for your assignment. Plus, you also don’t have the distraction of chatty co-workers. 

So, take your laptop to the patio on a sunny day. If your kids are home, consider heading to your local park for some quiet time. Suppose you’re a student. Studying outside can help you pass that big exam. 

5. Enjoy a Picnic

A picnic is a great way to bond with family or friends. You could even head out for a romantic afternoon. Load up a picnic basket with sandwiches and fresh fruit. Remember to bring plenty of water and a comfy blanket. 

Then head to your local park. Try to limit your screen time and use it as a chance to build stronger relationships. You can also bring along a speaker or a frisbee for extra entertainment.  

6. Spend the Day Fishing

This is an idea for how to relax in nature that doesn’t involve much physical effort. Fishing is a tranquil activity that anyone can do. It also allows you to slow down and enjoy the scenic views of rivers or lakes. Fishing takes patience, which reminds you to be in the present moment. 

You can also turn it into a family bonding activity. Depending on your luck, you might even catch something for dinner. If not, you’ll still have good stories to tell at family parties. 

7. Try Out Bird Watching

Bird watching is a unique hobby that can motivate you to get outside. There’s a sense of excitement when you recognize a specific bird. You can see if your area offers guided bird walks.  

Another option is exploring a trail and using the internet as a resource. Look up pictures of local species, so you can easily spot them. While looking up at the sky, you can even do some cloud watching. See if you can find unique shapes among them. 

8. Go Camping

Camping is a great way to bond with family and sleep under the stars. Plus, it is the perfect excuse to disconnect from your phone. Being surrounded by nature can help you recharge and forget about everyday stress. 

You can spend the day swimming, hiking or fishing. Then unwind at night with ghost stories and smores by the fire. You can also choose your level of comfort. Do you want to rent an RV for the weekend or go with tents and sleeping bags? 

9. Plan a Beach Trip

The beach is an excellent place to relax and soak up some sunlight. You can spend the afternoon splashing in the waves or sunbathing on the shore. Your kids might enjoy building sandcastles. The sound of lapping waves and the feeling of sand under your feet add to the peaceful atmosphere. Bring plenty of water and snacks if you plan to spend the day. Also, remember to have sunscreen on hand for those hotter summers. 

10. Head to the Mountains or Lakes

Take a trip to the mountains or find a nearby lake. These places provide scenic views that can lift your spirits and take your breath away. Plus, you can see all sorts of wildlife in their natural habitat. 

With these stunning backdrops, take time to reflect and figure out your next move. The Swiss Alps and Mount Fuji are famous mountains to explore. Then consider checking out Lake Champlain.

Tips for How to Relax in Nature

Getting outside is essential for your well-being. It can make you happier and allow your body to soak up essential nutrients. So, follow these tips on how to relax in nature the right way. 

Share on

Like what you read? Join other Environment.co readers!

Get the latest updates on our planet by subscribing to the Environment.co newsletter!

About the author

Jane Marsh

Starting from an early age, Jane Marsh loved all animals and became a budding environmentalist. Now, Jane works as the Editor-in-Chief of Environment.co where she covers topics related to climate policy, renewable energy, the food industry, and more.