From Guest Blogger Ash: Outdoor Hobbies–Gettin’ Your Environmental Green On
In today’s world, our daily habits are often those that lead to us losing touch with nature. Due to our many obligations, we neglect the call of the wild and stay confined to indoor-centric zones. It’s important however, to take some time to appreciate our environment, and not get caught up in the everyday rut of waking up, sitting at a computer all day, eating and going to bed.
Personally, I grew up with a stereotypical “big city life” and never really experienced the joy of being outdoors ‘till I was much older, and decided to try scuba diving during a holiday to Thailand. Since then, I’ve become a divemaster, and have tried various other outdoor activities that I truly believe have made me into a freer, happier and more well-rounded person. I can honestly say that having an outdoor hobby has so many benefits, not only on one’s well being, but also on the environment and its sustainability.
Personal Well-being
It comes as no surprise that outdoor activities greatly improve physical health. Hobbies involving physical activity, such as hiking, mountain biking etc. can contribute to weight loss and increase one’s metabolism. Being outdoors also increases vitamin D absorption, which lacks in most individuals due since it’s hard to consume adequate vitamin D simply from the food we eat.
Physical health aside, being outdoors has proven to improve mental well-being too. Studies have shown the links between being in nature and reduced negative emotions, confirming the positive correlation between exercising outside and a reduction of psychological stress.Those who spend a lot more time outdoors sleep better, and consequently their minds are more alert and productive.
Environmental Awareness
Today, with the looming realities like climate change and global warming altering our ecosystems, being environmentally conscious has never been more important. The problem lies with the average person’s lack of knowledge in terms of everyday sustainability. In that sense, being outdoors allows us to truly commune with our environment, indirectly educating us about the need to protect it.
To draw from personal experience, before I started scuba diving, I never thought twice about the fish I was eating in my daily diet. After experiencing the wonders of the ocean, I now think about where it came from, how it was fished, and which communities were harmed in its distribution process. These thoughts that never occurred to me previously have impacted how I buy fish now – I try to make sure the products have been sustainably curated, so as to reduce my impact on the ocean ecosystem.
Awareness as a result of personal experience is the best kind, and usually translates into driving change. So if you don’t feel to connected to the world outside of your home and office, maybe it’s time to take up a “green hobby” and reconnect with nature. Here, I’ve listed 5 of the most immersive outdoor hobbies, as well as their benefits to you and your surroundings.
Scuba Diving
Yes, I may be a little biased since I’m a divemaster – but if you experience scuba diving for yourself you’ll know why! 70% of our earth is covered in water, so after a little bit of training, scuba diving is a very viable hobby in most places in the world. What’s more, it keeps you immensely fit as there are enormous benefits to swimming and being in the water. The ocean remains relatively unexplored as compared to land, and due to its constant dynamism, each dive is always a new and thrilling experience. Being underwater lets you really feel like one with nature, discover the wonders of the big blue, and feel completely disconnected in a space of silence and beauty like never before.
Metal Detecting
Metal detecting is one of those hobbies that imbibes you with a sense of adventure, and will leave you feeling super satisfied – especially if you find something! From an environmental standpoint, you will get to learn a lot of about the topography in your area and what lies beneath the surface. You will learn so much about your surroundings, and metal detecting is that it is suitable for seniors and young kids. Often, age plays an important role in choosing whether or not to engage in adventure activities. Metal detecting is relatively stress-free, and keeps your body active without taking a heavy toll on it.
Bird Watching and Photography
Birds, with their ability to fly, are absolutely fascinating creatures. Many people think that to effectively birdwatch, you need to travel far into the wilderness. In reality, bird watching can take place in mildly forested areas – even your backyard! It’s a great hobby for kids, as it stimulates and heightens their senses, and gets them to appreciate nature at a young age through a fun and enlightening activity.
Ponding
A great hobby for those who are into gardening, ponding goes one step further and allows you to really get in touch with your immediate surroundings. According to Kathy and Steve Wakeman (avid ponders), ponding, “gives us a reason for getting out of the house even if the weather’s not perfect”. For them, “it’s therapeutic, very peaceful and serene.” Maintaining a pond teaches you about freshwater environments and things like algae, plankton, soil composition, and species of freshwater fish.
Volunteering at an Environmental NGO
If you aren’t completely sold on any particular green hobby just yet, then consider volunteering at an environmental NGO. Most environmental NGO’s have structured volunteer programs, that can give you an overview of various environmental issues. In this way, you’ll be pushed to explore different fields, and will maybe find a niche you truly care about. Volunteering can range from simply an hour a week to a more intensive program, so you can fit this hobby as per your schedule. You’ll gain tangible knowledge about pressing environmental issues and be giving back to your community in a very concrete way.
Of course, there are many other green hobbies that foster a love for the environment. The best way to experience this is by trying it out for yourself – you’ll find that our is a wonderful place, and even small steps you take to conserve it will go a long way.
