With technology becoming such a predominant part of today’s society, it’s easy to become distracted by one of the many versions of a bright lit screen. Maybe you don’t sit around on your phone or laptop, but you stay inside anyway. I’m guilty of laying around and napping or scrolling through social media all day just like many other people, but I also enjoy leaving the house for a while. Sometimes it’s good to take a break and get outside.
Even though spring has just begun, it won’t be long until the weather is just right to go and enjoy the outdoors whenever you have the chance. Here are 11 of my favorite ways to enjoy the world around us!
1. Hiking Trails
It’s not hard to find a good trail to hike with all of the state parks scattered throughout Arkansas. If you like the weather and have a day with nothing to do, take a few minutes to drive to the nearest state park. There are several different trails that take you through the trees, near lakes and up some of Arkansas’ mountains. The trails also range in length and difficulty so there’s one for everybody!
2. Biking
For many college students, biking is a way of transportation, but it can also be an enjoyable hobby. Plus, one good thing about biking is that you’re not really limited to where you can and can’t ride. Just hit the road (or trail) and go!
3. Fishing
Going fishing on a nice day is my one of my favorites! I’ve actually had a fishing pole and tackle box in the trunk of my car since I bought my fishing license earlier this year. Not only is it relaxing to go and sit by the water for as long as you please, but catching a fish is always exciting!
4. Running
No matter the weather, there’s always someone going for a run on a college campus. It can be enjoyable and rewarding. You can set your own pace and run where you please, all while working on physical fitness. It can be exhausting, but I always feel refreshed after a good run.
5. Canoeing/Kayaking
Hopping in a canoe or kayak on a warm day to float down the river with some good friends is the best. Some of Arkansas’ most beautiful scenery can be found while floating down some of the state’s winding rivers. The Buffalo River is my personal favorite.
6. Swimming
Whether it’s a pool or a lake, swimming on a hot day is the best. It’s the perfect way to unwind and relax after a long day. Even if you don’t want to actually swim, you can always wade in the shallow end or float around instead. I'm not the best swimmer so I personally like floating around or attempting my best cannonball a few times.
7. Laying Out/Tanning
Many people find it easier and more convenient to use a tanning bed to get the skin tone they desire, but laying out can help you achieve it as well. The main difference between the two is that laying just takes longer. It’s also cheaper and probably a bit safer for your skin, too.
8. Flying a Kite
It has literally been years since I have even attempted to fly a kite. However, the first nice and windy day this year, I saw over a dozen people flying kites and I’ve wanted to fly one since. Finding a kite isn’t too hard, either, because most dollar stores tend to carry them.
9. Playing with Your Pets
If you have outdoor pets or one you can carry outside occasionally, take some time to go out and play with them. Maybe you have a dog who likes to play fetch or loves a good belly rub or maybe you have an outdoor cat who occasionally likes to be pet. Regardless, go show your animals some love and enjoy being outside while you’re at it.
10. Hammocking
This is one hobby that has become super popular lately. I even asked for a hammock this past Christmas because I wanted to take part in the trend. Just go out and string up your hammock if you have one and relax. Read a good book or take a short nap.
11. Geocaching
My absolute favorite thing to do on a nice day is to go geocaching. It’s basically a worldwide treasure hunt and it’s free. You just make an account online at geocaching.com or download the app for your phone and have at it. While you have to use your phone or a GPS to go geocaching, you’re not stuck inside the house distracted by it. Instead, you’re using your phone as a tool to hunt for caches which can be loads of fun.
