We live in stressful times. Anyone who says otherwise probably doesn’t know that even the smallest worry of what to cook for dinner can be stressful for some. Stress has manifested itself in all aspects of our lives. Whether it’s our relationships, jobs, kids, or simply paying utility bills – everything just piles up to take a toll on your mental and physical health.

Now stress may be unavoidable given our everyday life routines, but it’s not inescapable. Don’t worry; we’re not going to ask you to head out on an expensive vacation. The solution is far simpler than that – all you need is the outdoors.

In case you’re wondering how the outdoors can help you de-stress, we’ve got four ways for you to try:

Consider Hiking

We’re all in for this one. Here at Light Hiking Gear, we don’t miss out on any chance of hitting a solid trail outdoors. Just pack your backpacks and set out on one of your favorite hiking trails or try a new one. Hiking brings you closer to nature. According to research, walking or in this case, hiking in a nature-dense region can have the same impact on your brain that happens when you meditate. Honestly, we’d take up hiking over meditation any day!

Use Your Bike

If you want to increase your level of outdoor activity, don’t go out on foot. Instead, bike your way into the outdoors. You can bike on the nearby trails or through the park. It’s just as good as hiking – only that you’d be burning more calories as you bike. Cardio is good for your health – both mental and physical.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, cardio exercise helps reduce stress! So, get that bike out and get ready for some pumped up de-stressing cardio outdoors – just don’t forget to keep a water bottle in your daypack!

Ever Tried Yoga?

Okay, we know it’s impossible to have a hiking trail or sometimes even a park nearby where you live. You obviously can’t head out to a National Park every other day or weekend too. So, what do you do in the outdoors to get rid of your routine stress? You try adding yoga to your routine.

Yoga is a complementary form of exercise that requires physical and mental discipline. Head to the rooftop or find a quite spot outdoors – it could be anything – your backyard early in the morning or the beach 5 minutes away from your place. Just head out, spread your mat, breath, and do your yoga. It’s a great way to reduce stress.

The Ocean’s Good Too

Since we mentioned the beach, how can we leave out the ocean? The ocean, no matter how stormy it is, always instigates a sense of calm in people. What can we say, the sound of waves breaking at the shore is just too precious. Go paddle boarding, surfing, or simply dive into the sea – the idea is to stay close to a “blue space” for stress relief.

A study conducted by the University of Exeter revealed that “blue spaces” make for the most calming atmosphere – and there is hardly anything bluer than the ocean.

There you have it – four great ways to relieve stress. Why don’t you give them a try over the next few weeks and let us know how they helped you de-stress?