Healing in nature can be a regular practice. It may be climbing, surfing, trail running, whitewater paddling, or a mindful walk in the woods. However we do it, for so many of us, nature is our church. But now, we’re limited in the ways in which we can experience the magic of the outdoors. Our new normal involves copious hours indoors and that can make anyone feel a bit antsy. It’s not easy. In addition, our current situation and the uncertainty surrounding it is highly triggering to many. So how do we ease the anxiety and take some long deep breaths outside?
Time in nature is a powerful antidote to our present state of affairs. Fresh air, changing vistas, and the sounds of nature provide ample opportunity to soothe the stress of too much time indoors on zoom calls. And the science shows, time and again, that not only is time in nature healing, but it’s also a vital necessity.
COVID-19 Coronavirus & Nature Trail Tips
We all know the basics. Stay six feet apart, in small groups, take it easy, and stay local. Along with these simple guidelines, it’s wise to have a mask handy in case you’re unable to avoid proximity. But what about other questions, such as: What time of day is best? Which trails are OK? Are any beaches open and if so, for what activities? The National Park Service keeps the public apprised of the evolving COVID-19 status of public spaces on their website. The US Forest Service is also providing Coronavirus updates fairly regularly on their site as well. It’s best to check your town or city websites online as well to find out about specific openings and closings. A town beach might be closed but state property accessible so do the footwork.
Awareness in Nature
What we know, from years of firsthand experience, is that common sense and awareness go a long way in the great outdoors. And now, more than ever, we have the opportunity to be stewards—for the land and for each other. Here are some tips for getting outside safely.
When to Go Outside
On the East Coast, we’re noticing that the weekends, in particular, are pretty busy at most local parks and public spaces. Uncomfortably so at times. We are blessed here at AR because we have relationships with private land conservancies and trusts that allow us to access the wild unfettered. Never has this felt more valuable. Yet, many still need access to fresh air. To ensure less crowding, it’s best to go early or later in the day. You will know the best timing, fairly easily, after one or two outings. What’s more, don’t go to public spaces that see a fair amount of foot traffic every day, if you can avoid it. Think about other spots and try to mix it up. And if you can avoid driving, go for it. If you can walk down the road to the nature trail in your neighborhood and just enjoy a trail run there, do it. Try to schedule your time, honoring the need for time off the beaten path and away from it all. That will ensure you get out there.
Where to Go Outside
As we said above, don’t hit the same spot every day unless it’s private land and you won’t see others. If it’s an open public space, think locally and create variation in where you go to get outside. In addition, if the trailhead is congested, find another spot. There is no reason to clog the already congested arteries. Perhaps there’s another access point to the trail you want to visit? Use AllTrails detailed mapping to get creative. This is important. As states start to loosen restrictions and guidelines, it’s up to each of us to hold the awareness of what’s best. Important to note, when planning any outings, be sure others know where you’re going, especially if you’re trying to use new routes or points of entry. Also, do not choose trails that are on a cliff or rock face that would require you to step aside in peril. You may need to make room for others and you want to do so skillfully and without risk. The last thing we want to do is tax the wilderness rescue or medical services in our areas by getting injured or lost in the woods. And it can happen to the best of us, so no ego here. It’s just smart awareness when venturing out. If things hit the fan for any reason, here are some reminders as to how to survive some common mishaps in the wilderness.
How to Go Outside: Be Mindful of the Nature Experience
As the Coronavirus situation evolves, we are all doing our part to ensure the health and well-being of our communities. We’re doing this the best that we can. And we all need to get out every once in a while. We can practice awareness in nature to avoid negatively impacting others or the natural environments we hold dear. Be mindful of your impact. This means take all the factors we’ve mentioned above into consideration. Finally, here’s a great article from Outside Magazine going into further detail about social distancing and trail etiquette and how to skillfully get out into nature.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We’re monitoring closely and scrubbing the gear as we prep for our next adventures. All of us here at AR wish you the very best. Stay safe!