Spring is a gift. Open the door and step outside.
There’s an old Zen saying that suggests “you should sit in nature for 20 minutes a day … unless you're busy, then you should sit for an hour."
In wellness and in life, this is a refreshing reminder worth thinking of often.
Many places and activities provide us with an opportunity to get outside and enjoy movement and tranquility. This gives us the chance to step away from our busy, hectic, sometimes stressful schedules, disconnect from our devices and reconnect with ourselves. Doing so helps us to enjoy a happier, healthier, more well-balanced life.
The time we take to meander and explore is truly the time we get back twofold or more. Your work, life, calendar and commitments will patiently await your return, and when you do, you will be much better equipped and ready to tackle whatever is in front of you. Take time to explore nature because it is worth it. Take time for yourself because you are worth it.
The big, beautiful, bright blue sky is the limit. Options abound and adventure awaits. Each time of the year holds a magic all its own and here in Virginia we enjoy the benefit of all four seasons. The wonder and beauty of springtime in our state is worthy of pictures and poetry, and it is most certainly deserving of our time and exploration. Here are some of my springtime favorites!
Hiking
People travel around the world to experience Shenandoah National Park and it is on our doorstep. This park warrants much more than just a mention, but for the purpose of this month’s column I direct you to the National Park Service website, which hosts a wealth of information on all the hikes they have to offer. Anytime you are planning a hike, or any outing, research, plan, arrive prepared — safety first always. And have fun!
Cycling
Virginia is home to a vibrant cycling community, so whether you are seeking to bike around your local downtown, cycle scenic country routes or navigate trails and off-road terrain, there is something for everyone. The best bet is to check out a local cycling shop for great guidance on where to go and what to take.
Blue Ridge Cyclery is located on Main Street in Warrenton and also has shops in Charlottesville and Richmond. Stop in and say hi, I’m sure they will point you in the right direction.
Haymarket Bicycles has a flagship store in — you guessed it — Haymarket! And they also have a studio in The Plains. Check it out.
Running & Walking
A list from me most certainly would not be complete without mentioning running, which is my favorite favorite thing. Since running is often the emphasis of my columns, I will keep it short this month with just one recommendation — enjoy the journey. Springtime in Virginia is a spectacular time to run or walk. The weather is ideal. Everything is in bloom. The days are getting longer. We have more daylight into the evening. These few months are blissful, please don’t let them pass you by.
Playing
Games and sports are not just a thing of our youth. Our area offers an array of recreational options for kids AND adults. Spring is a great time to consider joining any number of leagues, from organized team structure to casual pickup games and everything in between, including sports this time of year such as soccer, volleyball, flag football and ultimate frisbee. This is such a great way to get outside, stay active, have fun, see friends and meet new people.
There are lots of local clubs and groups worth checking out. Also visit Northern Piedmont Sports Club as well as the local town, county and state parks and recreation departments.
Touring & Learning
Take in scenery and history with a walking tour of historical landmarks, of which we have many! Manassas National Battlefield Park is a solid choice with acres and acres of land, miles of hiking trails, interpretive markers, guided tours and other outdoor activities.
Day trips are another great outdoor option — explore our nation’s capital, walk along the National Harbor’s waterfront, visit some of our charming small towns, the list goes on.
Or sign up to learn something new. Take a class on gardening, birdwatching, star gazing — the sky's the limit when it comes to possibilities.
Volunteering
What a wonderful way to give back AND get outside! The opportunities are infinite and can include anything from helping out at a spring event for a local organization, dog walking at the Fauquier SPCA or the Middleburg Humane Foundation, a day of cleanup or any number of a multitude of other worthwhile ways to volunteer your time.
Whatever you do, wherever you go this spring, revel in the simple delights of the season. Watch a sunrise, wish on a dandelion, create shapes in the clouds, play in a puddle. Observe and celebrate the season and let the environment transport you wherever you want to go.
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As a columnist for FauquierNow, this was originally written by me for Fit in Fauquier, our fitness and well-being column.