Catch Me Outside

Goodbye winter blues, hello sun shiny days!

I have been like a greyhound in the starting box, ready to race outside.

As a child, I was always outside with the neighborhood kids: hopscotch, climbing trees, racing, riding bikes, jacks, you name it!  Adulting and the Texas heat forced me to retreat inside.  Can you believe DFW hit a record 94 degrees this past Monday….in February…it is still technically winter.

Having small adventurous children in a rural location, reintroduced me to the great outdoors at a time when my life was craving the serenity.  Now, I can not get enough.  Being outside energizes me.  Basking under the sun undoubtedly increases my mood.  The sounds and harmony of nature (insects, birds, water flowing) are so calming and soothing.  The wind comforts as it caresses my skin.  The ever changing sky and the passing of clouds, keeps me grounded and hopeful.

With Springtime temperatures this past week and in the near and distant future, if you were/are looking for me, you can catch me outside, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the great outdoors.

My favorite room, or area, of the house is the backyard patio.  Whether I am  listening to music, enjoying a cup of hot tea, or “reading” a book, the family knows I am maxing and relaxing, so look for me here.

On my cousin Dejah’s suggested, Groupon inspired outing, 2 years ago, we discovered archery. This has become one of my favorite things to do when the weather is nice.  You really can not tell me nothing.  I feel like a badass everytime I release the bow, hear that target being hit, “BULLSEYE”!

Check your local parks and recreation, offering residents 1 and 1/2 hours for just $9 (lane, target, bow and arrow rental included.

I started going to the golf range last year and had a blast. I have not made a round…yet, but for $11, I get a lane and a bucket full of golf balls.

My game needs a lot of developing, but my swing has vastly improved, thanks to the many “golf coaches” there teeing off, offering advice (solicited and unsolicited) to polish my form (I have to remember it is golf and not softball/baseball). The connection and swoosh made on a good drive brings about a simple joy and satisfaction….FORE.

Walking in the light, beautiful light. I try to get out and walk a couple miles every day. When the terrain calls, like on the 30-day road trip with my family last summer, nothing is more pure fun and explorative, than a hike.

Not only is walking a low impact cardio workout, it’s a welcomed moment for some me-time, a chance to think, and the opportunity to marvel at nature’s beauty.

Yoga is already peaceful, but doing it outside in a relaxed space, amongst nature, takes it to another level.  The yin and yang of strength and tranquility is unmatched.

As winter appears to be making an earlier exit, making way for the awakening of spring, I will look for more activities under the sun. So, until further notice, you can catch me outside!

BTW:  “Nature itself is the best physician.” – Hippocrates

What outside activities do you enjoy?

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