If exercising outdoors isn’t a natural fit for you, it can feel like a chore.
One way to change how you feel about outdoor activity is by experiencing awe – that feeling of amazement when we observe something vast, like an open field, the ocean, or a skyscraper.
But you don’t have to travel to the coast or countryside – you can experience awe in everyday places, such as during a walk in your local park, by noticing your surroundings.
How to do it
1. Go somewhere new
Pick a part of your local area – such as a nature reserve, park or garden – which you haven’t yet explored.
2. Be distraction free
Switch off your phone or set it to silent mode before you go, to avoid any distractions.
3. Be in the moment
Start moving (at your own pace), paying attention to your breathing, the feeling of your feet on the ground, the sounds around you.
4. Make it work for you
As you begin to notice more of your environment, think about what inspires or intrigues you. Do you prefer open spaces? Flowers? Old buildings? What do you like about these things? The colours? Shapes? History?
Make time for movement
The more often you practice, the more likely you’ll be to notice opportunities to find awe in your everyday life.
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