Learning withOutdoors

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Calm, Cool, & Connected


10 calm, cool activities to connect you to nature!


Hobbies and Activities to better yourself & our world

These activities can be done as a solitary adult activity because let’s be honest we all need some quality alone time

OR with your families/class as a way to connect with nature and one another!


  1. Outdoor Yoga- whether you’re new to yoga or an old pro, take your practice outside to ground yourself on the actual ground of the Earth as you breathe in fresh air and have the calming background noise of nature (if your yard isn’t a peaceful oasis, try a local green space or park!)

  2. Gardening- add plants to your world! (If you don’t have the space outside, start an indoor garden) Gardening allows you to feel the dirt and the roots and feel a sense of accomplishment when the plant that you nourished blossoms! If you’re a foodie- plant fruits, veggies, and herbs to add to your favorite dishes!

  3. Picnic- enjoy a picnic by yourself or with friends and family outside! Bring food from your garden, home, or favorite restaurant and relax in the best eatery around- Nature!

  4. Art- whatever medium you prefer- sit outside and appreciate nature while trying to represent what you see through your art. Whether it be sketching, painting (watercolor, acrylic, etc.), collage, coloring books- enjoy your surroundings while allowing yourself time and space to creatively express yourself.

  5. Rock Painting- use paint or paint markers to create art on rocks. If you have an idea of what you want to paint, then search for the perfect rock canvas or find a rock first and see what it inspires you to paint! After spraying your rock with a clear sealer, place it outside of your home to enjoy or in your community for others to enjoy. Children and adults enjoy finding painted rocks on their hikes and walks- spread the joy!

  6. Hiking- hiking is an invigorating way to connect to Mother Earth- find hiking benefits, gear, safety, and games here.

  7. Find a Nature Passion- find something that sparks interest, excitement, and wonder in you. Some examples are birds, butterflies, fungi, flowers, etc. Once you find your passion begin exploring it! Go ‘hunting’ in the wild to find as many species as you can and learn all that you can! You can most likely find a club/group that shares your passion and you can make new friends too-think Audubon Society or a Birding Group!

  8. Nature Journaling- allow yourself quiet time to experience the world. Maybe you already have a passion in nature, use that passion as the focus of your nature journal experience- paint, draw, write a poem, write a scientific observation, or write questions you’ve wondered. Create a group of like-minded individuals and create your own Nature Journal Book Club! Learn how to easily make a nature journal or buy one!

  9. Read Outside- enjoy whatever brings you peace and joy. If you’re interested in educating others in the outdoors, we recommend these adults reads

  10. Recreation- fishing, tubing, kayaking, biking, rafting, mountain climbing, apple picking, letter boxing, etc. WHATEVER BRINGS YOU JOY!


It may not be easy to carve out time, but trust us it is so worth it!


Time in Nature is Important at all ages!

Help children get excited by nature at a young age!

Build life-long stewardship!


Take time out of your busy schedule for nature!

Travel and explore all nature has to offer!


Appreciate nature and let it fuel your soul!

Reflect on the beauty of the world!