It’s 2025, and you probably have a ton of resolutions around exercising more, eating healthy, saving money, or finding a new job. Having big goals can be motivating, but simple goals can also be beneficial.
What is a simple goal? An activity that you can easily implement and stick to. If nothing comes to mind, here’s your perfect goal: spending more time outside.
Benefits of being in nature
One of the most significant benefits of spending time in nature is improving mental health. Ever since smartphones became something we depend on more than water or food, society has become a place of overstimulation, constant distractions due to notifications, and seemingly never-ending anxiety about checking our phones.
However, you know what most green spaces don’t have? Outlets. While you can bring electronics into nature, it’s not required and is slightly frowned upon.
Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology, was quoted in a Pop Sugar article as saying that time spent in nature increases positive emotions, decreases anxiety and rumination, and helps with mental restoration.
But the benefits don’t stop there. If you are not sleeping well, try walking in the park, as being in nature can improve your sleep. If you struggle with high blood pressure, try going for a hike. Black women have some of the highest rates of hypertension across the globe. If you want to live longer, spending time in nature has been linked to reduced mortality rates.
Why Black women must spend time in nature
Besides reaping the benefits mentioned above, spending more time in nature means Black women can live free of judgment. The trees and the flowers aren’t going to pull a Karen.
When I spend time in nature, I don’t have to worry about changing my voice or wearing my hair a certain way. I can simply exist.
Additionally, in many spaces, such as work or even shopping at the store, Black women consistently experience microaggressions. Yet the only microaggression you might express in nature is getting scratched by a branch, and I promise it wasn’t because you’re Black.
With some DEI programs ending, it’s difficult not to feel like the country is disregarding not only Black women but other minority or underrepresented groups. Yet nature can be the accepting space you retreat to when you feel like the world is too much.
Ways to spend time in nature
So, if you’re convinced you need to put on your tennis shoes and sunscreen and go outside, here are some ways to fulfill your New Year’s resolution to spend time in nature.
Visit a park
Chances are there is a park near your home. Instead of going straight home from work and decompressing with a bottle of wine, try going for a walk in nature.
Remember to check out parks in your area or visit a national park.
Take a stroll on the beach
If the weather is cold, you probably don’t want to go for a swim; you can still enjoy the beach by walking along the boardwalk or sand. You can also find a spot to sit and meditate while you listen to the waves. Even take a few moments to gaze out onto the ocean. Simply gazing out into the vast open space can help you alleviate your vision from staring at screens most of the day.
Studies have also shown that panoramic vision can help with problem-solving, as widening your vision can help expand your mind.
Go for a hike
Hiking is an excellent form of exercise and a way to meet new people. Look up local hiking trails and ensure you are prepared with the right equipment. You can also join a hiking group to get you started.
When the world seems overflowing with hate and violence, I like to go on hikes to remind myself of the beauty in this world.
Try camping
Try camping to disconnect from the world and connect with nature. When I was younger, my parents took my brother and me camping, and I’ve done it a few times as an adult.
While it does take planning and preparing, it’s an excellent way to reset your nervous system. You can trade phone notifications for singing birds and sleep under the stars.
Do some gardening
Maybe you have a green thumb you never knew about. Gardening is a great way to spend time outside. Get your hands dirty by feeling the earth and planting flowers, vegetables, fruits, or whatever your heart desires.
Exercise outside
If you like being outside but don’t want to commit to anything too intense, you can exercise outside, whether running or power walking in the park. You can even look for fitness classes that are held outside.
Play outdoor sports
Baseball, volleyball, basketball, and tennis all take place outside. If you’re tired of going to a stuffy gym space to get fit, try an outdoor sport.
Women to follow for outdoor inspiration
If you’re making spending more time in nature your New Year’s resolution, you might need some motivation along the way. Here are some organizations and women to follow to help keep you on track.
Black Women in Nature
A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Central Ohio was created to provide equitable access to the outdoors for Black women. Started by Ivory Levert and Angela Mitchell, it focuses on creating safe spaces for Black women to explore nature and reap the healing benefits of being in green spaces.
Outdoorsy Black Women
This community of Black women who love nature focuses on creating spaces that encourage women to enjoy the great outdoors. They host regular retreats and chapters nationwide so you can connect with nature and other nature enthusiasts.
Black Girl Country Living
An account run by Hillarie Maddox, who left the big city and now lives in the country, encourages others to reconnect with nature.
You never know what benefits you can reap if you step outdoors, feel the sun on your skin, and enjoy nature.
