Make Time to Be Active Outdoors This Fall
September always has a way of sneaking up on us. One week is summer vacation and the next it is back to school, back to work, and back-to-back community events. Suddenly, schedules are filling up faster than the line for pumpkin spice lattes at your local coffee shop. It’s easy to feel like there’s no time left to breathe, but making a little space for the outdoors can lower that stress and bring balance to those busy days.
Fall is one of the best times in NEPA to enjoy nature, yet it’s the season many of us spend the least amount of time outdoors. But you don’t need hours of free time to appreciate the crisp air, or a weekend getaway to catch the changing leaves. Small, intentional breaks to step outside and take in the fresh air can make a big difference.
Here are some ways to create the habit of outdoor-oriented focus time:
Rowlands Preserve, North Abington Twp., PA
Whether you work within the city or from home, your lunch break is a great time to step outside. Try inviting coworkers to join you or even start a friendly challenge to see who can get the most steps. Making it a shared activity adds accountability, so it can quickly become the part of the day everyone looks forward to.
Swatara State Park, Pine Grove, PA
Just like you would a meeting or appointment, put that outdoor time on your calendar. Add a location, like a local trail or park, and commit to showing up. Take fun pictures so you can remember how much you enjoyed it, and amp yourself up for the next scheduled activity.
Cornelia and Florence Bridge Preserve, Milford, PA
Not every outdoor activity had to be long or strenuous. NEPA has plenty of easily accessible state parks and urban-proximate out-and-back trails, which can be made as long or as short as you like. Consider setting a new goal each time, like looking for new critters or keeping your eyes focused on the tree branches above you. These challenges can make you eager to explore and can be a great way to get the family engaged in a fun educational activity.
Thomas Darling Preserve, Blakeslee, PA
Going outside is more enjoyable with others. Invite a friend to join you on an after-work walk, schedule a family hike, or turn errands into the chance to explore a new route with your partner. Making outdoor time social reinforces the habit and gives you an extra mood boost.
This fall, treat outdoor time as a priority, not an afterthought
This small change can bring balance to your busy fall schedule and will allow you to enjoy all the beauty NEPA has to offer this season.
Experience the Best PA Fall Foliage in NEPA — No Hiking Required
