Last month, my family and I took a break from our suburban lifestyle and spent a few days reconnecting with nature in Yosemite National Park. Despite my usual preference for indoor activities, the experience was nothing short of blissful. We hiked for hours, breathed in the crisp mountain air, and enjoyed the stunning sunsets. We trekked along dusty trails, got a little messy, and dipped our toes in cool mountain streams. The entire experience left us feeling refreshed and liberated—like a rejuvenating shower followed by a cold drink on a scorching day.
Now that I’m back to the routine of day-to-day life, I often find myself yearning to relive that sense of peace. When work projects pile up or my kids start squabbling over Netflix choices, I fantasize about escaping to the wilderness. I picture us hiking through the hills, biking on country roads, and splashing around at the beach. In my mind, a brief getaway would be the perfect antidote to our mundane existence.
However, turning these idyllic fantasies into reality is often more challenging than it seems. The vision of a perfect family outing, mirroring a scene from a stock photo, rarely aligns with our actual experiences. My kids often resist, opting to stay inside and play video games, while my husband and I spend an eternity loading up the car. By the time we finally set off for what should be a restorative escape, we’re already worn out. And once we’re outdoors, it’s not uncommon for someone to feel too hot, too cold, too tired, or too hungry.
Let’s be honest: unplugging and spending time in nature is easier said than done—especially for those of us who aren’t fans of bugs, dirt, and outdoor restrooms. But despite these hurdles, the benefits of spending time outdoors are undeniable. So, for my fellow easygoing parents, here’s a laid-back approach to getting your family outside:
1. Start Small
I tend to have grand ideas—think big or go home, right? We often begin our outdoor adventures with lofty goals. Unfortunately, what’s meant to be a joyous experience frequently turns into a chaotic ordeal, with complaints about the cold or hunger (mostly mine). Thus, I’m learning to temper my expectations. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple evening in the backyard, sipping wine while watching fireflies. There’s no extensive packing or long drives involved, and if things go south, we’re just a few steps from home.
2. Cultivate Curiosity
Kids soak up our enthusiasm and attitudes. While it’s natural to impart knowledge, let’s not forget that there’s so much about nature that’s beyond our comprehension. It’s okay to express awe and curiosity; your excitement will inspire them to feel the same way. So, don’t hesitate to exclaim, “Wow! This is incredible!” now and then.
3. Get Planting—Or Delegate
I have a knack for killing houseplants and absolutely detest gardening. My husband, however, has a green thumb. Each spring, he plants a small garden, allowing each family member to choose a vegetable. My kids typically opt for strawberries or watermelons—both of which have yet to produce anything edible—while I go for cherry tomatoes, which flourish despite my negligence. If we’re lucky enough to harvest anything, my kids are tasked with picking it—one of the rare chores they actually enjoy. Everyone wins, especially me!
4. Limit Complaints
Humans are masters at finding things to complain about, especially now when the world seems chaotic. While climate change is a genuine concern, dwelling on problems without action doesn’t help. Instead, let’s focus on solutions. How about volunteering to pick up trash in a nearby park or biking instead of driving? These small actions can contribute to positive change.
5. Take Action
As lazy as I am, I’m also a planner. I love discussing future plans and creating lists. Yet, life often intervenes, and those grand ideas can fall by the wayside. Sometimes, it’s essential to put the planning aside and just do it. I’m just an average mom navigating the ups and downs of family life. We all lead busy lives, and occasionally, it’s vital to disconnect and step outside—even if it’s just to walk the dogs around the block.
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In summary, while embracing the great outdoors can be challenging, it’s also rewarding. By starting small, fostering curiosity, and keeping complaints to a minimum, we can make outdoor experiences enjoyable for the whole family. Sometimes, all it takes is a little effort to step outside and appreciate the world around us.