Caitlin Crowe

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Caitlin Crowe Creative Blog

How to Explore in Your Own Backyard

2/26/2018

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​Everyone experiences a twinge of wanderlust from time to time, especially when we are tantalized with spring-like temperatures in the midst of winter. Unfortunately, though, embarking on frequent vacations is not an option for some of us, no matter how badly we desire to pack our bags and escape our everyday routines.

With that being said, it is entirely possible to gain new experiences without venturing too far from home. After all, we all spend so much time in our own personal bubbles, commuting to and from work, the grocery store, and so on, that we tend to neglect opportunities for adventure that are practically in our own backyards.

So, without further ado, let us discover new and exciting ways we can explore in our own hometowns.

Explore new parks in your area

One day, make it your mission to visit and familiarize yourself with the parks in your town. To keep the activity interesting, create a checklist of all of the spots you wish to discover, like the best tree to sit under and read a new book, the best pond to feed ducks, and the park with the best trails. You may be surprised by all of the hidden gems you will find sprinkled throughout your area.

Attend local events

Whether or not you are active in your community, it is likely that you have not attended every special event the area has to offer. With that in mind, carve out some time to research new upcoming events, like concerts or food festivals, that will introduce you to a new crowd of people. This will allow you to gain new experiences and expand your social circle, similar to the perks of a vacation abroad but without the expense or time commitment.

Utilize a map for a weekend

Challenge yourself to completely unplug and rely on a good old-fashioned map for all of your navigational needs, just for a little bit. Following this guide will not only improve your own sense of direction, but can aid you in discovering new trails and natural landmarks as well. While it may not be the easiest experiment to stick to, perhaps it will help you rely less on technology in the long-run. 

Try quirky new activities

Whether it be zorbing — rolling downhill in a large, transparent ball akin to a hamster globe — or solving your way through a local escape room, trying out new and unusual activities is one of the best methods of exploring all your area has to offer. Plus, you will come out of the experience with new memories and stories to share as you encourage your friends and family to give it a try, too.

Clearly, there are plenty of ways you can explore and expand your horizons right in your hometown. All it takes is a bit of research, creativity, and determination. If you give one or more of these challenges a try, please be sure to share your experiences in the comments below. Or, start a conversation with Caitlin Crowe on Twitter.

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Wilderness and Wellness: How Spending Time in Nature Can Improve Your Health

2/23/2018

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Spending time in nature is one of the most intuitive methods of positively impacting one’s mood and overall mindset. However, regardless of just how natural this method appears, it does not seem as though many people turn to exploring the great outdoors when they are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Perhaps this is because they simply do not have the time to do so, what with their hectic work schedules and familial commitments that may consume their entire weekends. Or, perhaps it is because they are skeptical of all the benefits fresh air and sunshine genuinely hold.
Regardless, let us take some time to clarify just how spending time in nature can improve your physical and mental health.

Nature provides a calming escape

It is no secret that individuals who live in Westernized countries are inundated with feelings of stress and anxiety, both work-related and otherwise, and some do not feel as though they are equipped with the tools necessary to cope with and ultimately escape their stressors.

However, recent studies have shown that individuals who walk for as little as 20 minutes through an urban park or wooded area reported significantly lower stress levels than those who spent time wandering through a crowded city. Seeing as one does not have to commit hours-long chunks of their time in order to feel the refreshing benefits of the outdoors, perhaps more people will feel inclined to incorporate short nature walks into their daily schedules.

Nature refines our ability to focus

A 2010 health letter from Harvard Medical School noted that our lack of focus often stems from our propensity to remain indoors all day, whether because of work or poor weather conditions. If we were to spend more time outdoors, though, we would see almost instantaneous positive results.

After all, observing plants, water, birds and other animals, rather than our usual, blue-light-emanating devices, gives the cognitive portion of our brains a rest, leaving us feeling refreshed, renewed, and more patient than before.

Nature sparks inspiration

It is no coincidence that a number of the world’s most famous pieces of art were inspired by nature — from Van Gogh’s “Irises” and Monet’s “Water Lilies” to Georgia O’Keeffe’s “From the White Palace.” So, if you ever find yourself struggling to come up with your next creative project, combat writer’s block, or simply find the motivation to press through the remainder of your work day, spending a bit of time outdoors may be the solution you are searching for.

Evidently, nature wields greater benefits than just a nice view. Ensure you are taking every opportunity to get outdoors and refresh and revitalize your senses. Trust me, you will not regret it.

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    About the Author

    Caitlin Crowe is a dedicated health and wellness coach based in Portland, Maine. 

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