Helping Families Learn Homesteading and Self-Sufficient Living
Are you tired of shelling out big bucks for ski shop visits every time your skis need some TLC? Well, get ready to hit the slopes with confidence and wallet intact. In this article, I’m about to demystify the world of ski maintenance, letting you …
There’s nothing “easy” about trekking through the wilderness and setting up camp with small children. But with the right strategy in place, you can make your trip a whole lot easier. We took on camping as a hobby when our oldest was about a year …
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Are you ready to conquer the winter landscape in style? Brace yourself for snowy adventures by discovering the ultimate snow boots for women. These carefully handpicked boots not only guarantee warmth and comfort but are also built to withstand the harshest winter conditions.
Living in Alaska has taught me one thing if nothing else: to invest in high quality snow boots. If all you’re ever going to be doing is running from the car to inside of a building, then the need for snow boots is dramatically less. But for us outdoorsy women, who seek adventure even when the temps drop below zero, a high quality boot is essential for comfort and warmth.
I’ve tried and tested many brands out on my outdoor adventures into the Alaskan wilderness and these have been the best. Not only do they keep feet warm and dry, but they are comfortable even for wearing over many hours and walking long distances.
If you are looking for the best snow boots for women, then look no further. These 5 tested and trusted brands will be the ultimate game changer for any woman in the great outdoors.
When it comes to conquering the winter wonderland, there’s one brand that stands out for its ultimate winter performance and style: Sorel boots. These boots not only offer unparalleled warmth and comfort but are also built to withstand the harshest winter conditions. With their sturdy construction and innovative features, Sorel boots are the go-to choice for women seeking both functionality and fashion in their winter footwear.
Sorel boots are designed with the modern adventurer in mind. They offer a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary style. The brand’s attention to detail and commitment to quality shine through in every pair of boots they create. From the durable and waterproof materials used to construct the upper, to the cozy and insulating linings that keep your feet warm, Sorel boots are built to withstand even the most extreme winter conditions.
But it’s not just about practicality with Sorel boots. These boots also boast a sleek and stylish design that will make you stand out on any snowy adventure. From classic lace-up styles to trendy wedge heels, Sorel offers a wide range of options to suit your personal style. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or strolling through town, Sorel boots will keep you looking chic and feeling comfortable all winter long.
Don’t just take my word for it. Sorel has gained a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals alike. With countless positive reviews and testimonials, it’s clear that Sorel boots are a trusted and reliable choice for women seeking the perfect combination of performance and style.
When it comes to braving the winter elements, Baffin Boots has established itself as a front-runner in the industry. With their commitment to quality and functionality, these boots offer unparalleled warmth and durability that will keep your feet cozy and protected in even the harshest conditions.
Designed with the utmost attention to detail, Baffin Boots are crafted using high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of winter adventures. From their waterproof exteriors to their insulated linings, these boots are engineered to keep your feet dry and warm, no matter how extreme the weather may be (hello, -40 F).
But what sets Baffin Boots apart from other brands is their dedication to performance. These boots are specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand the best in comfort and functionality. With features like multi-layered insulation and innovative traction systems, Baffin Boots provide the ultimate combination of warmth, comfort, and stability, allowing you to conquer any winter terrain with ease.
Arctic with Ribbon
If you’re looking for a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality, Steger Mukluks is the brand for you. These snow boots are a perfect combination of heritage and innovation, offering you the best of both worlds when it comes to winter footwear.
Steger Mukluks has been crafting high-quality boots since 1986, drawing inspiration from the time-honored mukluk design used by Indigenous peoples in the Arctic. With a deep respect for the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations, Steger Mukluks stays true to the art of handcrafting their boots. Every pair is made with precision and care.
But don’t let the traditional craftsmanship fool you – Steger Mukluks also incorporates modern materials and features to enhance performance. These boots are designed to withstand the harshest winter conditions. They are exceptional in keeping your feet warm, dry, and comfortable no matter what winter adventures you embark on.
One standout feature of Steger Mukluks is their use of natural materials, such as moosehide, rabbit fur, and wool felt, which offer incredible insulation and breathability. These materials not only provide exceptional warmth but also allow for moisture-wicking. This keeps your feet dry and sweat-free during intense activities.
Furthermore, Steger Mukluks are known for their superior traction. The boots feature a rugged sole made from natural gum rubber, providing excellent grip on icy and snowy surfaces. This ensures you can confidently navigate slippery terrains and maintain stability throughout your winter adventures.
So, if you’re seeking a snow boot that combines the heritage of traditional craftsmanship with the performance of modern technology, look no further than Steger Mukluks. These boots will not only keep your feet cozy and protected but also allow you to embrace the spirit of winter with confidence and style.
Whether you’re on a budget or simply prefer a more affordable option without compromising on quality, Tamarack Boots have got you covered. These winter boots offer affordable comfort without sacrificing performance, making them a great choice for winter adventures. Tamarack Boots understands the importance of keeping your feet warm and protected. They have designed their boots to withstand even the harshest winter conditions.
With a focus on functionality and practicality, they offer features like waterproof materials, insulated linings, and durable soles that provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces. You can confidently navigate through snowy trails or walk downtown without worrying about your feet getting cold or wet.
What sets Tamarack Boots apart is their commitment to affordability. While some winter boots can be quite expensive, these offer a range of styles at more budget-friendly prices. This makes them accessible to a wider audience. This affordability doesn’t mean that they compromise on quality or durability. Tamarack Boots ensure that their products live up to their reputation.
Whether you’re planning a snowshoeing excursion or simply need a reliable pair of boots for your everyday winter adventures, Tamarack Boots is a brand that delivers both comfort and value. With their affordability and performance, these boots are a smart choice for anyone seeking reliable winter footwear.
When it comes to outdoor gear, Columbia is a brand that consistently delivers on both style and performance. Their line of snow boots for women is no exception. Designed with the needs of outdoor enthusiasts in mind, Columbia boots offer a sleek, versatile option that can withstand even the harshest winter conditions.
One of the standout features of Columbia boots is their ability to seamlessly transition from the trail to everyday wear. The sleek design and neutral color options make these boots a fashionable choice for any occasion. Whether you’re exploring the winter back country or simply navigating icy city streets, Columbia boots will keep you looking and feeling your best.
But it’s not just about style – Columbia boots are built to perform. With innovative technologies such as waterproof materials and advanced insulation, these boots provide maximum protection against the elements. Whether you’re trekking through deep snow or trudging through slushy sidewalks, you can trust that your feet will stay warm and dry in Columbia boots.
In addition to their functionality, Columbia boots are also known for their durability. Constructed with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, these boots are built to last. You can wear them season after season, knowing that they will hold up to the demands of your winter adventures.
When choosing a snow boot, versatility is key. You want a boot that can handle any winter activity, from hiking to shoveling snow. Columbia boots check all the boxes, offering the perfect balance of style and functionality. With their sleek design, advanced technologies, and long-lasting durability, Columbia boots are the ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking to unleash their winter adventures.
In the dead of Winter, the right snow boots can make all the difference. After exploring the top options, from Sorel boots for ultimate performance and style to Columbia boots for versatility and sleekness, you are now equipped to embrace your winter adventures with confidence. These carefully selected boots offer not only warmth and comfort but also the durability to withstand even the harshest conditions.
As you step into your snowy outdoor adventures, let your feet feel the warmth of unparalleled boots like Baffin. Experience the perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality with Steger Mukluks. Don’t let the cold weather hold you back. Take on your winter adventures today.
Remember, the best snow boots for women are not just a fashion statement but a vital tool for exploring the outdoors. Stay warm, comfortable, and stylish as you unleash your winter adventure.
Let these boots be your guide to new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Go out into the winter wonderland with enthusiasm, curiosity, and the knowledge that you have the best snow boots on your side.
What are you waiting for? Lace up your boots and let your winter adventure begin. Put your best foot forward and leave behind footprints of courage, resilience, and discovery. As Roald Amundsen once said, “Adventure is just outside your door.”
Are you ready to take your cross country skiing skills to new heights? The key lies in mastering the technique. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your form or a seasoned skier aiming for peak performance, this article is here to guide you. Cross …
Winter is a magical time filled with crisp air, powdery snow, and the promise of thrilling adventures. But have you ever wondered how to truly maximize your winter experience? Maybe you are looking for a little more thrill than just plain Cross Country Skiing. Look …
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As the chilly winds of winter draw nearer, the anticipation for ski season begins to build. There’s one thing that’s crucial to ensuring this season is both enjoyable and injury-free: mastering your fitness.Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, getting fit for ski season is a must for a successful day on the slopes.
The slopes demand strength, endurance, and agility, but fear not – I’m here to help you conquer them. In this article, I’ll delve into proven strategies and techniques that will prepare you physically for the ski season ahead.
Whether you prefer to train at home or in the gym, I’ll explore the best options for you. Start now, and you’ll be soaring down the slopes with a body that’s in peak condition.
To ensure your ski season fitness reaches its peak, it’s important to start by setting your fitness goals. By defining what you want to achieve, you’ll be able to tailor your workout plan specifically to your needs. Whether your goal is to improve your endurance, increase your strength, or enhance your agility on the slopes, having a clear objective will guide your fitness journey.
When setting your fitness goals, it’s essential to make them specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Instead of simply aiming to “get in shape for ski season,” consider specific targets like being able to ski for a certain number of hours without fatigue or successfully completing difficult trails.
Furthermore, it’s important to be realistic about your current fitness level and the time you have available to dedicate to training. If you’re a beginner, your initial goals may focus on building endurance and learning proper technique. On the other hand, experienced skiers may aim to improve their strength and dynamic stability.
Additionally, consider the duration of the ski season and plan your fitness goals accordingly. If you have several months before the slopes open, you can set more ambitious targets and incorporate progressive training plans. However, if ski season is just around the corner, focus on maintaining and fine-tuning your current fitness level.
Remember, setting your fitness goals is not only about reaching a specific destination but also about enjoying the journey. Embrace the process of challenging yourself, celebrating small victories along the way. Adapt your goals as you progress.
With your fitness goals in mind, it’s time to delve into designing an effective workout plan that will not only maximize getting fit for ski season but also help you enjoy the journey towards achieving those goals. A well-thought-out training regime will serve as your roadmap. It guides you through targeted exercises and techniques that will enhance your strength, endurance, and agility on the slopes.
When crafting your workout plan, it’s important to consider your current fitness level and any specific areas you would like to improve. Are you a beginner looking to build a solid foundation of strength and flexibility? Or an experienced skier aiming to fine-tune your skills? Assessing your strengths and weaknesses will allow you to tailor your workouts to meet your individual needs.
To ensure a well-rounded approach, your workout plan should incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Cardiovascular exercises, such as running or cycling, will help increase your endurance and improve your overall fitness level. Strength training exercises, including squats, lunges, and deadlifts, will target key muscle groups used during skiing, such as your legs and core. Lastly, flexibility exercises, like yoga or stretching routines, will enhance your range of motion and prevent injuries.
As you design your workout plan, remember to set specific goals for each workout session and track your progress. This will not only keep you motivated but also allow you to celebrate small victories along the way. These milestones will serve as reminders of your dedication and progress.
Additionally, be open to adapting your goals and workout plan as you progress. Your body will naturally adapt to the demands of your training, so it’s essential to continuously challenge yourself by adding variety and increasing the intensity of your workouts. This process is called “Progressive Overload.” Consider incorporating interval training or incorporating new exercises to keep your workouts fresh and engaging.
To begin, it’s important to focus on exercises that target the specific muscle groups used while skiing. These include the legs, core, and upper body. Squats and lunges are excellent choices for strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. These are crucial for stability and power on the slopes. Incorporating exercises such as step-ups and calf raises can also help improve your balance and endurance.
Don’t forget to pay attention to your core muscles. They play a vital role in maintaining balance and stability while skiing. Planks, Russian twists, and mountain climbers are all effective exercises for strengthening your core. Additionally, incorporating exercises like push-ups and shoulder presses can help improve your upper body strength. This is important for controlling your poles and maintaining a stable upper body position while skiing.
Furthermore, it’s essential to incorporate exercises that mimic the movements and demands of skiing. For example, lateral jumps can help improve your agility and quickness. Box jumps can enhance your explosiveness. Additionally, incorporating exercises that challenge your balance, such as single-leg deadlifts or Bosu ball exercises, can help improve your stability on the slopes.
Remember, variety is key when it comes to getting fit for ski season. Be open to adapting your workout plan as you progress. Add new exercises or increase the intensity to continuously challenge yourself. By incorporating a diverse range of exercises that target the specific muscle groups used in skiing, you’ll be well-prepared to conquer the slopes with strength and confidence.
Fueling your body with the right nutrients is crucial for peak performance on the slopes. Just like how you tailor your fitness routine to suit your ski-specific goals, your diet should also be optimized to support your physical exertion and recovery. By making smart choices and paying attention to what you eat, you can enhance your stamina, strength, and overall skiing experience.
To begin with, it’s important to consume a well-balanced diet that includes a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Carbohydrates provide the energy necessary for intense workouts and skiing sessions. Opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins are essential for repairing and building muscle tissue. Incorporate lean meats, fish, dairy products, and plant-based sources like beans and tofu. Lastly, don’t forget about healthy fats. They help with energy storage and hormone production. Include avocados, nuts, and oils in your meals.
In addition to macronutrients, micronutrients play a vital role in supporting your overall health and ski performance. Ensure you’re getting a sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals by consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. These nutrient powerhouses will provide antioxidants to protect your cells from stress and boost your immune system.
Hydration is also key to maintaining optimal performance on the slopes. Dehydration can greatly impact your endurance, coordination, and overall skiing ability. Make it a habit to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Consider sipping on electrolyte-rich sports drinks during intense workouts or long days on the mountain.
While meals and snacks are important, timing is also crucial. Aim for a pre-ski meal that includes a mix of carbohydrates and proteins a couple of hours before hitting the mountain. This could be a balanced meal such as whole grain toast with avocado and eggs, or a protein smoothie with fruits and yogurt. Additionally, maintain your energy levels during the day with small, nutrient-rich snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruits.
Remember, proper nutrition is an ongoing process. Just like your fitness routine, it’s essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. Experiment with different foods and pay attention to how you feel during and after skiing. By nourishing yourself with the right combination of nutrients, you’ll be able to optimize your performance and truly make the most of your ski season.
Whether you prefer exercising at home or hitting the gym, there are proven strategies and techniques that can help you optimize your performance on the slopes.
For those who enjoy the convenience and comfort of working out at home, there are plenty of exercises and routines that can be done with minimal equipment. Bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, and push-ups are great for building strength and endurance. Incorporating exercises that target your core, such as planks and mountain climbers, can also improve your balance and stability on the slopes. To add variety to your home workouts, consider investing in a set of dumbbells or resistance bands. They can be used for a wide range of exercises.
On the other hand, if you prefer the atmosphere and motivation of a gym, you’ll find a plethora of options to enhance your ski season fitness. Most gyms offer a variety of cardio machines, such as treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. These can help improve your cardiovascular endurance. Additionally, you’ll find a range of weight training equipment that can target specific muscle groups and help build the necessary strength for skiing. Consider incorporating exercises such as leg presses, deadlifts, and shoulder presses to strengthen the muscles used during skiing.
Regardless of where you choose to train, it’s important to focus on exercises that mimic the movements and demands of skiing. Incorporating exercises that challenge your balance, agility, and coordination will help you better navigate the slopes. Additionally, including exercises that target your lower body, such as squats and lunges, will help improve your leg strength and stability during skiing.
By incorporating a structured and well-balanced training schedule into your routine, you’ll be able to maximize your fitness gains and be fully prepared for the ski season ahead. Scheduling your ski season fitness plan is crucial to ensure that you’re effectively building strength, endurance, and agility in the right areas of your body.
To begin, it’s important to set specific goals for your ski season fitness journey. Consider what aspects of skiing you want to improve, whether it’s your stamina on longer runs, your ability to tackle more challenging slopes, or your overall power and control. By identifying these goals, you can tailor your training program to address those specific areas.
Once you have your goals in mind, it’s time to create a training schedule that works for you. Keep in mind that consistency is key, so aim to schedule your workouts on the same days and times each week. This will help you establish a routine and make it easier to stick to your plan. Whether you prefer to exercise in the morning or evening, find a time that suits your schedule and commit to it.
In terms of frequency, aim for at least three to four workouts per week to see significant improvements in your ski season fitness. This will give your body enough time to recover between sessions while still allowing you to make progress. Consider alternating between different types of workouts to target different muscle groups and prevent boredom. For example, you could focus on strength training exercises one day and incorporate cardio or flexibility workouts on other days.
When creating your schedule, it’s also important to factor in rest days. Rest days are crucial for your body to recover and prevent overtraining. As much as you may be motivated to push yourself, remember that rest is an essential component of any training program. Allow your body to recharge and repair itself, so you can come back stronger and more energized for your next workout.
Lastly, stay flexible with your schedule. Life happens, and there may be days when unexpected events prevent you from sticking to your planned workout. Instead of becoming discouraged, be adaptable. Look for opportunities to squeeze in a shorter workout or modify your routine to fit the circumstances. Remember, even a brief workout is better than no workout at all.
By scheduling your ski season fitness plan and committing to a routine, you’re setting yourself up for success. Consistency, goal-setting, and flexibility are key components to keep in mind as you strive to improve your strength, endurance, and agility.
Getting fit for ski season requires setting clear goals, designing an effective workout plan, incorporating ski-specific exercises, fueling your body with proper nutrition, and finding a routine that fits your lifestyle.
By following these proven strategies and techniques, you’ll be ready to conquer the slopes and make the most out of your ski season. Stay consistent and listen to your body. With dedication, you’ll experience the thrill of skiing with a body that’s in peak condition. Start now and embrace the adventure that awaits you on the snow-covered mountains.
As the saying goes, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Love skiing, embrace the challenge, and let your fitness be the key that unlocks the exhilarating and transformative experience of the ski season.
Are you tired of lugging around a heavy backpack filled with bulky meals during your back-country adventures? Back when my husband and I began our backpacking adventures, we were guilty of bringing canned goods on the trail. Imagine how heavy this weighed down our packs! …
The holiday season can prove to be one of the busiest and quite stressful seasons for many people, including myself. We live in a strong gift giving culture, but often the stress is in figuring out what to actually give as a gift. If you …
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Becoming the most advanced civilization that we’ve ever known has come at a cost. We have our smartphones, TV’s, and electric, self-driving cars. But with all of these advancements in modern medicine, food production, and technology, we are the sickest and saddest we’ve ever been as a species. One of the problems contributing to this fact is the overwhelming amount of individuals suffering from Nature Deficit Disorder. In this article, we’ll go over what this term means, and the essential strategies to prevent Nature Deficit Disorder as a family.
It began after the Civil War, when masses of people began to move into cities and out of rural areas. But it would take over another hundred years to begin affecting the population as a whole.
All the way up until around the 1980’s people spent a large amount of time outdoors, for work and for leisure. Children played outside every waking hour they were able, and usually only school was stopping them. But even back then, children had over an hour’s worth of recess to play outside. The standard time for recess now is 15 minutes.
Even in suburban and urban neighborhoods, people knew their neighbors well because they spent time together on the front porch. Think about the parents and grandparents who simply enjoyed sitting on the porch watching the world go by, the children play, and the birds sing. When is the last time you saw someone simply sit on their porch for enjoyment?
No one is getting outside like they used to, adults and children alike. With the rise in technology and lawsuits, children simply aren’t allowed to play like they used to in the time of our grandparents. When imposed with too many limitations, children simply resort to being indoors on a tablet.
In his book “Last Child in the Woods” Richard Louv goes into great depth about this separation and when it occurred. It is a very insightful book as he is also the originator of the term “Nature Deficit Disorder.”
I’m sure that by now you’ve read about and probably even researched the many issues that underlie our physical and mental health complications. From GMO’s to sedentary lifestyles, there is a plethora of problems that remain unresolved but out in the light.
One of the common threads that is becoming noticed is our lack of time in nature. Children are spending an average of 7-8 hours per day behind a screen and only 4-7 minutes on average outside. You read that right, 4-7 minutes. Most adults on average reported spending less than 5 hours per week outdoors. Not only is this a problem for children, but for adults as well.
With the decline in our time spent outdoors there has been a simultaneous rise in mental and physical health disorders like anxiety, depression, obesity, and vitamin D deficiency. Though NDD is likely not the direct cause, it is part of the issue and addressing it can help to address these issues.
NDD presents itself similarly to many other disorders. Symptoms include anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, increased levels of stress, obesity, the inability to focus, poor academic performance, decreased problem solving skills, and a decline in physical and mental health overall.
It is curious that many of these symptoms are the same as another popular “deficit disorder.” Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD has risen drastically over the recent years. In a 20 year study beginning in 1997, the percentage of children diagnosed rose from 6.1% to over 10%!
As a mother to children with ADHD, I have anecdotally seen first hand the benefits that nature has to offer children with attention or hyperactive issues. I have seen my son go from a state of aggressive arousal to bliss with 10 minutes of fresh air. My oldest daughter, who is learning to process preteen emotions, can go from argumentative preteen to a peacefully playing child with just a few minutes outside.
If you or your children are struggling with any of the signs and symptoms of Nature Deficit Disorder then the next section is going to go over the different ways to get outside and combat this new problem that is arising among our families.
This is a problem best addressed as a family. When everyone in the family is meeting their outdoor needs, the household and daily tasks will run much smoother. All of these recommendations are beneficial for adults and children alike. They all reduce the burden on the nervous system and reduce stress.
These actions will enhance your relationship with yourself and your family. Try these for a week and feel the difference in your stress and happiness levels.
Adults and children alike are spending an average of 7-8 hours per day looking at a screen. Much of this takes place at school and work, so unless you plan on switching careers or homeschooling, there’s not much you can do about the time spent on screens in those environments. You can, however, control the amount of time spent on them at home.
Of those 7-8 hours, 3 hours and 43 minutes is the average that an adult spends on their phone. We’re always complaining that there isn’t enough time in the day. What could be done in the almost 4 hours that we’ve spent scrolling social media?
As a homeschooling family, I certainly see the importance of screens in our daily lives. We learn, socialize, and entertain ourselves with technology. There is so much to be gained from technology when we use it properly.
Try reducing the daily overall time on screens spent mindlessly scrolling or playing games and use that time instead to step outside for fresh air. A popular trend nowadays is having a screen free day once a week. Some die hard pioneers are even challenging themselves to a week or sometimes even a month without screens. I haven’t found the need for that in our household, yet, but I definitely seek to reduce the amount of mindless time spent on screens for myself and my children.
Technology is a tool like any other. Use it to gain something, but don’t let it take away your physical and mental health.
We’ve replaced sitting on our front porch watching the kids play outside with rushed soccer practices and drive thru lines. The absence of free play for children and leisure time for adults has given rise to a busy schedule full of activities that we deem more valuable.
There is a certain pride for people to have the busiest of schedules. For their children to attend every class and every extra curricular possible. But research is showing that this is detrimental to our health. The more we structure and organize, the less happy we become.
Try opening your schedule for the month. There is definitely nothing wrong with extra curricular so long as they still leave room for free time. This is true for adults as well as children. We need time to reflect, to decompress, and to admire the natural world.
Though this seems geared towards children, it is just as important for adults. Though our play looks different than the play of children, we never outgrow our need for it. Play is crucial for human happiness.
For children, this looks like setting them loose in the backyard and letting them play freely. It can be building forts, playing role-playing games, digging in mud, or even taking their favorite toys outside.
Adult play is different, but can include joining your kids in their outdoor play. Hide and seek and tag are particularly fun for me to play with my own children. It can also include sitting in a hammock and reading a book that you enjoy, creating art outside, or going for a leisurely stroll. Anything that is fun and done outdoors is what I would consider outdoor play.
Try being intentional with your outdoor play and treating it as important as your bedtime routine. Do this for a week, a month even, and see the difference it makes in your overall well being.
This one is geared towards parents. Children have a knack for doing what they see instead of doing what they are told. If they grow up seeing their parents enjoying the outdoors, they will be more likely to enjoy the outdoors and prevent a nature deficit.
This is especially important as children look to us for an example of what it is like as an adult. With the amount of distractions in the home, it can be difficult to keep a child’s interest in going to play outside. Leading by example can be just the nudge they need to encourage themselves.
Humans are wonderful at adapting to change. Even if we are used to the comforts of the home, we can quickly develop resiliency to the elements outdoors and prevent a nature deficit.
As an example, my family moved from tropical South Georgia to arctic Alaska. It took a few weeks to acclimate to the temps outdoors, but we did. Because we spend plenty of time outdoors, we are able to withstand temperatures lower than others who have spent their whole lives up here.
Resilience is a skill that I am passionate about as a mother. I want my children to be resilient in life. There is no better teacher than nature. If you can walk outside on a rainy day and enjoy yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle the storms of life as they head your way.
Once you find an outdoor activity that you really enjoy, that love and connection to nature will flourish. You’ll find yourself excited to be outside. You’ll look forward to it every day and will be more likely to stick to your daily outside routine and prevent a nature deficit.
It is hard to walk into a forest and not lose yourself in its magnificence. Try sitting out in nature and observing what is going on around you. Notice the birds, the insects, the plants and the way they interact. Find something that you really appreciate and nurture that love for nature in it.
When you develop a love for nature, you’ll be glad to spend time in it every day.
What do you think of when you read that word “adventure?” Do you picture climbing mountains, sailing into the ocean, or embarking on a month-long wilderness adventure? These are all dream adventures that we would love to go on, but they don’t fit into most people’s reality.
The adventures that I am talking about are very doable, some even a few hours in length. There is a certain book by Alastair Humphreys called “Microadventures” where he provides an entire book on different ideas for adventure. He labels the time commitment and difficulty level for each one. Some are short quick stents and others are multi day excursions. You will not lack ideas in his book, and I love that they are all achievable by anyone without physical limitations.
These adventures will help to keep the outdoors intriguing. We humans are naturally curious by nature and they often lead you to the most wonderful discoveries. It is important to periodically experience awe inspiring moments to soothe stress and remember our place on the Earth.
We tend to schedule events in our lives which hold great importance. We make space for them and make sure to adhere to the time so that we don’t miss them. If we apply this concept to our outdoor time it may help hold us accountable to ourselves to get outside every day.
A popular “outside” schedule that I’ve seen is to schedule at least 1 hour per day of time outdoors. This can vary by season. We live in Alaska so when it’s deep into Winter and -50 F, 1 hour is unrealistic. We tend to make up for this during the Summer where we spend plenty of time camping and hiking. 1 hour is a great starting point in preventing nature deficit disorder.
Once a week, try going for a longer excursion outdoors. Maybe its that hike you’ve been wanting to attempt, or even a visit to the zoo. Spend 3-4 hours outdoors at one time, once per week.
Once a month, try taking a weekend camping trip. This is a great time to refresh and get your circadian rhythm in check. This can obviously be seasonal, depending on where you live. It takes pretty extreme gear to go tent camping in the Winters of Alaska. Go as often as you can.
If at all possible, try taking a week long wilderness retreat once a year. It can be as simple as an annual family camping trip during the Summer. This is where you will really get that feeling of a “reset” through nature.
Whatever way you want to schedule your time outdoors, make it a priority. Make it high on your list of values for your physical and mental health.
Nature Deficit Disorder, though not a true medical diagnosis yet, is a term to describe the physical and mental ailments that have resulted in our disconnection from nature. It is a way to describe the correlation between our health issues and our lack of time spent outdoors.
This article is meant to give you ideas to help prevent these issues, and maybe to even provide relief from ones already experienced. Nature is essential for human health and happiness. In some form or another, it is crucial that we experience it regularly in our lives.
As the naturalist John Muir once said, ““Everybody needs beauty…places to play in and pray in where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.”
Let’s dedicate time to getting outside. Lets prevent a nature deficit disorder in our families. As we spend more time outdoors we heal ourselves, our families, and our planet as a whole.
Winter is a wonderland waiting to be explored, filled with snowy adventures that will leave you breathless with excitement. The chill in the air and the glistening white landscapes beckon us to step outside and experience winter like never before. In this article, we will …