Friluftsliv – Small steps add up
It’s the Norwegian idea of outdoor living. Since I consider myself an outdoor person, it would seem like a natural fit. But, I’m still American, but with Scandinavian roots, which helps, and I spend far too much time inside. On average, an American spends only about 13 hours a week outdoors. Much of that is catching up on the weekend after a full work week. It comes out to about 7.6 percent a week.
Even us that like to think we spend a lot of time outside might be overestimating how much we do. Yup, some folks work outside; they are the lucky bastards. There might be a human condition that pushes us to spend a lot of time undercover. We aren’t the toughest living creatures on the planet. We have a narrow survival window when it comes to the universe.
But does time inside become too much? That’s a hard line to define. It does come down to each person. I’ve met people that have, what seems, a natural aversion to the outside and sunlight. Others that I have met can barely stand sleeping inside for six hours a night.
The great thing is that there are small steps you can take that add up to give you a lot more time outside. Even if you don’t have a backyard or have a job that let’s you be outside, these little things can give you a lot more outside time.
Take your morning coffee outside
Even if you don’t drink coffee, stepping outside first thing (after you get pants on please) is an awesome way to greet the day. It could be as small a step as walking out of the balcony, or even just sitting by an open window. Being out early sets the path to enjoy the day. You can get a gauge for the weather. Many times, that seems more accurate than looking at the forecast on your phone. Standing out in it really lets you know what to expect.
Sure the weather could be terrible. Rain gear or a warm puffy coat might be required. But think how much of a badass you look like if nearly every morning you step outside for coffee.
Opt to ride a bike or walk to work
This might not be an option for everyone. But it is totally a way to get outside time, plus it’s a great way not to think about work, going there or coming home. Maybe you only do it when the weather is nice in the summer, warm and dryer. You also might have an option to ride to the store or evening entertainment. Take the time if you can. If you feel that you can’t because it takes longer or too much time, maybe it’s time to rethink what you are spending your time on.
Take break and lunch outside
And I don’t mean walking to the car. Weather permitting, even just a short break can add up. A real bonus if you have access to open space nearby. in a large city this can be a problem, since many times the open area outside work is the smoking area.
Spend a little time outside once you get home
Have a nice backyard? After work is a good time to go relax in it. Maybe not have dinner out there, but try and get a little sky watching time in, instead of the TV or a screen. Slowing down at the end of the day might also help you to sleep better.
Make the outside a little more comfortable
One thing that stops folks is they might not feel comfortable outside in their own space. Be it the backyard or a porch, you won’t want to use it if it doesn’t feel as comfortable as it does inside. Maybe it’s better seating, sometimes it might be designing a little more privacy. Put a little work into making your space yours, and you will be rewarded.