My Dilemma

Everywhere you look – either outside or on social media – people are running, praising running, recommending running… Videos and pictures of runners doing their thing are all over the internet.

Don’t get me wrong, I love to run as much as an influencer in their mid-20s training for their first marathon.

But there are other ways to get outside, too!

It’s not just about running. You don’t have to run. It’s just getting outside and moving your body. It could be walking, it could be gardening, it could even be washing your car in the driveway. It is amazing how getting outside can change our mood.

Don’t let yourself be cooped up all day.

Let yourself breathe in some fresh air.

You don’t have to be into the running fad to be active and get outside. You don’t have to wake up at 5am and journal about your gratitude, your to-do list, and your aspirations for ten years from now.

Go outside. That’s all.

If it’s storming or raining or there’s a tornado down the street coming your way… Please, don’t.

Only have ten minutes for outside time? Here are a few things you can try…

• Walk around your block before you leave for work or when you get home from work (or both)
• Take a phone call outside during work
• Have a “walking meeting” during work
• Pull your car in the driveway – open all its doors and do a quick de-clutter
• Have a backyard, balcony, or porch? Have your morning coffee or afternoon/evening drink on it

You don’t need to plan an entire day to be outside.

You only need a few minutes.

If it’s drizzling out, try taking a short walk with an umbrella. It can be fun and different and even refreshing. Plus, it gives you the chance to use your rainboots you never get to wear.

Getting out the door is the hardest part.

Rain or shine, try spending at least ten minutes outside every day for a couple weeks. See if you notice any changes.

Likely, you will.

You don’t have to run to preach about being outside! You can spend your time outside however you want it. Whether you live in a city or in the middle of nowhere, it’ll give you the literal breath of fresh air you probably didn’t know you needed.

It’s worth a try.