I’m Outside, Now What?

Take a Breath, You’re Out Here Now

If you are outside while reading this, pause for a second.

Take a slow, deep breath — unless, of course, you’re standing downwind of a pasture or near a particularly aromatic chicken barn. In that case, maybe just appreciate the view instead.

Now exhale. Feel the calm settle in.
Listen to the birds, the rustle of leaves, and the soft hum of the wild around you.
Let your senses catch up to the stillness.

Look closer — each blade of grass, each leaf, even that odd-shaped rock by your boot — all tell a story that’s been unfolding long before we showed up.

That’s the beauty of being here, right now. Nothing to prove, nothing to rush.

Prep Before You Step

Before you hit the trail, run through a quick mental gear check. Because nothing kills a good day outdoors faster than realizing you left something essential back at the truck.

• Survival kit: easy to grab and stocked.

• Water: more than you think you’ll need.

• Snacks or lunch: for keeping energy steady.

• Footwear: boots broken in, no blisters in sight.

• Hiking stick: for those sneaky root-covered paths.

So many small details, but they make all the difference between a relaxing walk and a miserable trudge back to the car.

And seriously — if you head out unprepared, you might miss the best part of the experience: actually enjoying it.

Step Into the Quiet

Now that you’re packed, prepped, and ready, it’s time to walk.

Don’t forget your phone (for emergencies) and a camera for capturing those perfect “this is why I came” moments.

Take a few steps down the trail, then glance back. Watch as the noise of daily life fades behind you.

That’s when it hits — the realization that you’re no longer rushing through the day, you’re actually in it.

And just like that… you’re ready to enjoy a peaceful, well-deserved walk in the woods.

Until next time — Get Outside and Play!