Stress is a normal body reaction to day-to-day pressures. Too much of it, however, can be detrimental to your physical and mental health. The American Institute of Stress found that 33 percent of individuals in the United States are living with extreme stress.

Although you can’t eliminate stress completely, you can take steps to manage it by getting a much-needed downtime. If you’re suffering from high levels of stress, consider getting the relief you need by spending time with Mother Nature.

Here are 11 outdoor activities that can help you relax and enjoy the beauty of the world around you:

1. Go Fishing

The beauty of this activity is its versatility. You could go on a salmon fishing trip on your own or with a group. What’s more, you could catch your next meal in a river or on a boat. Since fishing requires lots of focus and patience, this activity can take your mind off stress and internal conflict. What’s more, it reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation.

1. Take Photos of Nature

Get off social media, go outside, and take pictures of nature’s wonders. Photography provides a different perspective of the world and keeps your stress in check. Look for wonderful photo opportunities showcasing the beauty of the world, such as vibrant trees and stunning white clouds.

If you come across photographic gems, use it as your wallpaper or screensaver. When you’re feeling stressed, look at the photos you’ve taken to remind you of the tranquil times you’ve spent outside your house.

1. Take a Hike in the Wilderness

Not all walks are equal. Rather than cruise the busy and chaotic streets of the city, hike a local trail or walk barefoot along a sandy beach. You don’t necessarily need a specific destination — the journey is more important in this case. Just take in the beauty of the outdoors and temporarily forget about your stressors in life.

1. Go Swimming

This activity isn’t just refreshing during the summer. It can also keep your body and head cool during hot days. Look for a nearby lake that lets you swim and take a dip. Alternatively, go swimming on a less crowded outdoor public pool.

1. Surf the Ocean

If you’re looking to relieve stress while getting some form of exercise, surfing is the way to go. Ride the waves and let the water wash away your troubles. If you don’t know how to surf, you can enroll in classes that teach you to paddle properly and catch your first wave successfully.

1. Visit a Farmer’s Market

Rather than do your groceries online or in the supermarket, check out a farmer’s market in your local community. Get seasonal and fresh produce that will keep your body and mind healthy. Make sure to bring a basket that you can fill with organic, farmed food.

1. Sleep Under the Stars

Camping in the great outdoors can be relaxing for many people. It lets you get away from the distractions and stressors present in your house.

It also resets your body clock naturally. The artificial lighting in your home, along with the glow of your mobile devices, can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Getting rid of this lighting means that you can fall asleep naturally once it’s dark and wake up when the sun rises.

1. Go on a Picnic

Don’t want to spend your night outdoors? Go on a daytime picnic instead. Load your basket with delicious, home-cooked meals and have lunch in a public park or garden. Consider inviting a few companions with you. Turn a picnic into an opportunity to spend quality time with people that matter in your life.

1. Do Yoga Outdoors

Pose in paradise by bringing your yoga mat outside your home. Yoga offers many physical and mental health benefits. On top of building core strength, it enables you to relax as you enjoy nature’s beauty.

1. Relax at an Outdoor Hot Spring

Look for a hot spring near your area and relax as you bathe in the water. Soaking in nature’s Jacuzzi offers many benefits, including reduced stress, improved blood circulation, and pain relief.  

1. Grow a Garden

Gardening requires patience, attention, and a love for flowers, plants, and vegetables. On top of giving you a break from everyday stress, this activity helps you save money, as the food you eat can come directly from your garden.

Take note of these 11 activities if you’re feeling overwhelmed with the demands of life. When you need to get away from the commotions and hustle of everyday life, just take up an outdoor activity. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on life’s challenges.

Meta title: 11 Outdoor Activities to Help You Alleviate Stress

Meta description: If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed right now, give your body and mind a break. Read on to discover outdoor activities that can lower your stress levels.