9 Easy Ways To Start Spending More Time Outside

Feeling stuck in a loop of screens, schedules, and indoor routines? It might be time to step outside and reconnect with the great outdoors. Getting fresh air each day can lift your mood, boost energy, and give your daily routine a much-needed reset. The best part? You don’t need a ton of time or special gear to make it happen. With a few small changes, it’s easy to work outdoor time into your day.

These nine easy ways to start spending more time outside can bring more nature into your life, even when things feel nonstop and busy.

1. Start Your Day With a Morning Stroll

Wake up 20 minutes earlier, lace up your shoes, and head outside for a walk. A quick morning stroll through your neighborhood or nearby trail gets your body moving and your brain firing on all cylinders. The fresh air and early sunshine can make a more significant impact than a second cup of coffee. Plus, the calm of the early morning gives a peaceful start before the day gets loud.

These walks are a simple way to shake off grogginess and gear up for whatever’s ahead. Bring headphones if you like podcasts or music, or go without technology and listen to birds, rustling leaves, or the quiet buzz of the early day. Either way, it’s a great way to begin.

2. Enjoy Lunch Outside

Instead of eating lunch under office lights or in front of a screen, grab your meal and head outdoors. Find a park bench, grassy spot, or quiet area where you can sit, relax, and recharge. It’s a small change, but one that can make a noticeable difference in your afternoon mood.

Even 20 minutes outside during the afternoon can break up the day and refresh your mind. Whether it’s a homemade sandwich or something picked up nearby, your lunch break gets a lot more enjoyable when paired with sunshine and fresh air.

3. Take Meetings on the Move

If your schedule includes phone calls or virtual meetings, take them outside when possible. Walking while talking often brings out new ideas and lets your brain shift into a more creative zone. Plus, it’s a smart way to sneak in steps during a busy day.

No meetings? Schedule a casual walk with a coworker or friend. Chatting outside creates a more relaxed vibe, and turning meetings into mini walks adds a fresh twist to your routine that feels less formal and more natural.

4. Turn Weekends Into Mini Outdoor Adventures

Use weekends as an excuse to explore new outdoor spots. Whether it’s hiking a trail, strolling through a botanical garden, or checking out a new park, these quick getaways give your mind and body something new to enjoy.

Pack a bag or backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and whatever else you might need, and make a day of it. Even just a few hours outside can make your weekend feel longer and more fulfilling, and give you something to look forward to during your busy weekdays.

5. Use Green Spaces for Fitness

Skip the gym and move your workout outdoors. Parks, sidewalks, or local trails are all fair game for activities like jogging, biking, or yoga. Even bodyweight circuits feel different when you’ve got fresh air and open space around you.

Outdoor workouts don’t just feel better; they often leave you more energized afterward. With natural surroundings and no mirrors or screens, it’s easier to focus on the moment and enjoy the movement. Plus, working out in the sun can boost vitamin D levels, which can brighten your mood even more.

6. Say Yes to Outdoor Coffee Dates

The next time you’re meeting up with someone for coffee, suggest a spot with outdoor seating, or grab your drinks and take a walk together. Whether it’s a trail, waterfront area, or a favorite neighborhood street, sipping and strolling is a fun switch from the usual.

Spending time outside turns casual meetups into a relaxing and enjoyable experience. You get to connect with someone while soaking in fresh air and scenery. Simple changes like this can turn an everyday hangout into something special and refreshing.

7. Spend Time Gardening

Whether it’s a backyard, balcony, or even a windowsill, gardening is an easy way to be outdoors more. Try planting herbs, flowers, or even a few veggies. Digging, planting, and watering all get your hands dirty in the best way.

Don’t worry if you’ve never gardened before, because it doesn’t require any experience. Even basic planting can be surprisingly rewarding, and over time, it turns into a peaceful hobby that connects you with nature right at home. Watching plants grow and bloom is a great way to feel connected to the earth.

8. Plan Picnics

Few things feel more relaxing than a classic picnic. Grab a blanket, put together a few snacks, and head to a nearby green space. Whether solo, with friends, or with family, it’s an easy way to enjoy the day.

Pair your meal with a book, music, or just enjoy the moment. Slowing down with good food in an open space brings a sense of calm and reminds you how enjoyable simple pleasures can be. It’s also a fun way to mix up routine meals and create little moments of joy.

9. Unplug for an Hour a Day

Make it part of your daily routine to put the phone or tablet away and step outside, even if it’s just for an hour. Take a walk, sit on the porch, or wander around the neighborhood without any digital distractions.

These moments act like a reset, bringing fresh energy into your day. Over time, you’ll start to notice how much better things feel when nature becomes part of your regular schedule. Giving yourself technology breaks can clear your head and open up space for new ideas or just a little peace.

Make the Outdoors Part of Your Everyday Life

These nine easy ways to start spending more time outside don’t require big changes or hours of free time. They’re small, manageable tweaks that can shift how you move through each day. From morning walks to weekend hikes, every bit of outdoor time adds up. Make the most of it by keeping things simple, fun, and consistent. Pick one or two ideas that fit your life and give them a try. Your body and mind will thank you.

When you’re ready for bigger adventures, gear up with WOLFpak’s rugged, stylish, and reliable large tactical backpack, which makes it easy to carry everything you need. Your time outdoors will be better when you don’t have to carry multiple bags or need to leave stuff behind because there’s not enough space.