By Jessica Lane
Originally Published: September 27, 2016
Recently, my family traded our suburban lifestyle for a brief escape to the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. As someone who typically prefers the comforts of home, I found the experience to be nothing short of blissful. We spent hours hiking, breathing in the crisp mountain air, witnessing stunning sunsets, and splashing our feet in cool streams. This immersion in nature left us feeling rejuvenated and liberated—a welcome contrast to our usual routine.
Now that I’m back to the daily grind, I often reflect on how to recapture that serene mountain vibe. When overwhelmed by work or the incessant squabbles between my kids over what to watch next on Netflix, I find myself daydreaming about unplugging and reconnecting with the outdoors. I envision our family enjoying simple pleasures like hiking through hills, biking on scenic trails, or playing in the waves at the beach. However, making these idyllic escapes a reality often proves challenging.
The picturesque scenes of a family joyfully frolicking in nature rarely align with our reality. My children often resist, preferring the allure of video games, while my partner and I expend energy packing up for our outings. By the time we’re ready to go, fatigue sets in, and once we finally make it outside, there’s always someone feeling too hot, too cold, or too hungry.
Let’s face it: unplugging and spending quality time outdoors can be a daunting task—especially for those of us who aren’t fans of dirt, bugs, or the great outdoors in general. Yet, despite these challenges, it’s clear that time spent in nature benefits us all. For my fellow less-than-enthusiastic parents, I present a laid-back guide to enjoying the great outdoors:
- Begin with Small Steps
I have a tendency to dream big, often envisioning grand adventures. But starting with lofty goals often leads to disappointment. So I’m learning to temper my expectations. Sometimes, just sitting in the backyard watching fireflies (preferably with a glass of wine) can offer a delightful escape. This way, when inevitable tantrums occur, we’re already at home.
- Cultivate Curiosity
Children absorb our attitudes and enthusiasm. While parents often feel compelled to impart knowledge, displaying our own curiosity can inspire them to explore the wonders of nature. Don’t hesitate to express genuine awe—occasionally exclaiming, “Wow, this is amazing!” can go a long way.
- Try Gardening or Delegate
I am famously lacking in gardening skills. However, my spouse loves to take charge of our small garden each spring. Each family member picks a vegetable to plant, and if we’re lucky enough to harvest, my kids enjoy picking them. This arrangement keeps everyone involved while I simply enjoy the fruits of their labor.
- Avoid Complaining
We humans have a knack for complaining, especially in today’s chaotic world. Instead of focusing on negativity, let’s take action. Participating in local clean-up efforts or biking instead of driving can foster a sense of community and contribute to environmental improvement.
- Just Take Action
I am often more of a planner than a doer, but sometimes you just need to jump in. Life is hectic for all of us, and occasionally, we must turn off our devices and embrace the outdoors. So, I’m going to shut my computer and take my dogs for a walk—no matter how simple it may be.
In summary, navigating family life while trying to reconnect with nature can be challenging, but it’s essential for our well-being. By starting small, fostering curiosity, involving the family in gardening, focusing on positive actions, and simply getting outside, we can create meaningful experiences in nature.
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