We know only too well that for busy mums and mumpreneurs, finding time to get outdoors and connect with nature can be a challenge. However, in this month’s newsletter, we saw how incorporating simple outdoor activities into your daily routine can have significant benefits for your physical and mental health. Many of these benefits are just what mums and mumpreneurs are seeking. But how can you incorporate the outdoors into your already busy life? We are sharing eleven simple ideas to help you get started. They may not all suit your lifestyle, but we think there’s something for everyone.

1. Take a morning walk: Start your day with a brisk walk around the block or a nearby park. This can help you wake up, get some fresh air, and prepare yourself for the day ahead. This could be on your way to work or walking the children to school. A recent University of Cambridge Study highlighted the benefits to be gained from just an eleven minute brisk walk a day making it easier to fit in to your day.

2. Eat lunch outside: If you're working from home or have some flexibility in your schedule, take your lunch break outside. Pack a picnic or just sit on your back door step and enjoy your meal while soaking up some vitamin D. It can also support your circadian rhythm to step outside first thing with your cup of tea or coffee.

3. Go for a run or cycle: If you enjoy more vigorous exercise, why not try a morning or evening run or cycle ride? This can be a great way to get your heart rate up and release endorphins to boost your mood.

4. Plant a small garden: Whether you have a balcony or a large back garden, planting a few flowers or herbs can be a great way to connect with nature and add some greenery to your surroundings. Consider starting with a few pots. Taking care of a plant can be a superb mindful activity.

5. Take your children on a nature walk: If you have young children, taking them on a nature walk or scavenger hunt can be a fun and educational way to get outside together. There are many simple guides to nature out there, and many forests offer their own activity packs. See how many species you can identify!

6. Do outdoor yoga or meditation: Practicing yoga or meditation outdoors can be a great way to combine the benefits of movement and mindfulness with the restorative power of nature.

7. Take a dip in a nearby lake or river: If you're lucky enough to live near a body of water, why not take a refreshing swim or paddle? Just be sure to follow any safety guidelines and check the water quality before taking the plunge. If you’re new to outdoor swimming, then start with a supervised session.

8. Join an outdoor fitness class: Many gyms and fitness studios now offer outdoor classes. For example, there are boot camps happening in village parks up and down the country. This can be a great way to get some fresh air and socialise with like-minded individuals.

9. Try geocaching: Geocaching is a fun outdoor treasure hunt using GPS coordinates. You can download an app and start exploring your local area for hidden caches. Children love this one and you’ll discover all kinds of new places nearby.

10. Take a camping trip: If you're up for a more adventurous outdoor experience, why not plan a camping trip with your family or friends? This can be a great way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other and nature.

11. Forest bathing: This one is exploding in popularity. So much so that we will delve into all the details in our next blog post!

Overcoming Obstacles...

Of course, there are many obstacles that might prevent you from getting outdoors. Here in the UK, we are often in the hands of the weather gods. However, the right clothing can overcome this. You can take a hot drink and wear thermal layers in the cold, and wear waterproofs and wellies in the rain; you could even splash in the puddles with the kids!

As a mum or mumpreneur, you may look at this list and wonder when you’re supposed to get time away from your children for some of these activities. However, most of them can be done with your children, allowing them the benefits of the outdoors, too. In fact, many children love being outdoors and will often create their own games, which keep them occupied for hours.

If you're short on time because of work, try incorporating outdoor activities into your existing routine. For example, take phone calls outside instead of sitting at your desk, or if you’re a mumpreneur, you can even do these while you take a walk.

Whether it's a short walk around the block or a weekend camping trip, take some time to get outside and connect with nature. The positive impact it can have on your overall well-being will amaze you. And if you’re struggling to see a way to make this happen, or think you need more than a little time outdoors, get in touch to discover how we can help you.

Start your journey today – achieve confidence, balance and clarity for an easier, happier life!

Empowering Mums is on a mission to empower a million mums and mumpreneurs just like you with greater confidence, balance and clarity to activate your infinite capabilities within! Enabling you to enjoy an easier, happier life alongside running a highly successful business. Aligned with enjoying time out for an essential self-care routine that fulfils your own needs and delight in quality time spent with your children being the mum you really want to be!

For further support please contact Empowering Mums today on 01606 334 015, alternatively visit our website at www.empoweringmums.com for more information.