National Play Outside Days – who knew?
Mark your calendars for Saturday 1st November because it’s time to celebrate the next National Play Outside Day! On the first Saturday of every month, we are all encouraged to step outside and enjoy the great outdoors. There are no planned activities or events – just grab your loved ones and engage in something fun under the sun … or drizzle or the snow. It matters not.
It’s November – are you mad?
Probably! Fighting the urge to hunker down and hibernate can be harder than it sounds. But getting into the habit of taking exercise, playing games, experiencing nature (or even just more of your village, town or city) brings its own rewards. And making an effort to get outside is great for our relationships and well-being. Heading outside might require a little push, but feeling the fresh air and having some fun quickly makes it worthwhile. The memories created during these outdoor adventures will last a lifetime; it’s healthier. Calories are burnt, vitamin D absorbed and sleep can be improved.
In our screen-dominated world, many of us have drifted away from outdoor play. Gone are the days when parents had to call their kids in for tea; now we have to coax children outdoors. And you know, the world isn’t as dangerous as social media might have you believe.
Do one small thing first – set a reminder
You might be reading this on your phone? So before you do anything else, go onto your calendar or diary and mark the first Saturday of every month as your Play Outside Day. Even if you have to swap dates around, it’s a great way to remind yourself to head outside more.
For parents, grandparents, teachers or anyone really, there are loads of simple ideas on the Play Outside website. I found it super-helpful.
Finding support for everything else
Treacle.me is free to use and includes links to hundreds of local and national groups offering support and advice about all sorts of issues including finances, mental health, employment and so much more.
I hope some of you will give the outdoors more of your time. See you outside!
Helen