Need some peace away from the bad news of the day, constant emails, or trail of tweets?
It could be as easy as taking a hike.
Yes, it might mean planning a vacation in the great outdoors, or it might be just taking a walk around the block, or outside your office building.
Studies have shown getting outside and moving for as a little as five minutes can improve your mood and health.
My family just returned from a few days in gorgeous Mammoth California amidst trees, lakes, and mountains. It took a bit to get used to the elevation, but the calm and beautiful surroundings were easy to take in.
At the top of one hike, sitting on rock, Noelle said, “I could stay here all day. It’s so calm and peaceful here.”
These moments in God’s creation are restoring. Psalm 33:6 says, “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.”
What trip will you plan? The anticipation of a future event seems to be as fun as the event itself. Getting outside and doing something physical gives you and your children a space to think, unwind, have fun, and grow strong.
We saw many older adults on the mountain, in fact, I was huffing and puffing more than they were. It was inspiring!
One of the five habits I share in my new book Calm, Cool, and Connected is “Take a hike.” Leave your phone in your pocket and breathe in deep.
At the end of one trail, James had us all find a log to lay on. Not only was it nice on the feet, it was amazing to stare at the blue sky and watch the trees sway overhead.
The heavens declare the glory of God.
As we pull away from our devices and head outside (before it gets too cold right?), we’ll be happier and healthier. Enjoying the outdoors is a beautiful gift to present to your children in this increasingly indoor screen-driven world.
Where will you go next?
