Spring is Calling. Go Outside!

April is the Best Month to Be Outside

The weather is warmer, the flowers are blooming, the days are longer... who wouldn’t want to be outside? This is the time when everyone’s mental health begins to improve! When sunlight hits your eyes and skin, your body increases serotonin, which is the body’s “feel good” chemical. Here are some ideas of things to do outside in the beautiful weather!

Have a Picnic

Bring a group of friends to host a picnic on beautiful green grass that’s beginning to regrow. This weather is not yet too hot to sit outside, and there are also a lot less bugs than there are in summer. Bring some easy snacks like fruit, sandwiches, or even a charcuterie tray. Cards or a board game make a fun but calm activity to keep you entertained. To add to the vibe, bring a small speaker for soft background music. But most importantly, don’t forget a blanket to sit on! If you need inspiration for a good spot, try out Samford Lawn!

Do Homework Outside!

Fresh air means better focus, and a change of scenery improves motivation! My personal favorite spot to study is at a coffee shop with tables outside. Go enjoy the new patio outside of the student center Starbucks with brand new seating, tables, and firepits. You could also visit Samford Lawn with a blanket, hammock, or sit on one of the benches there. There are so many gorgeous study locations around campus to explore. Don’t forget to charge your devices and bring headphones so you can listen to music while doing your homework.

Take Pictures

Lighten up your Instagram with some new spring photos. Blooming trees and flowers make a perfect background. Some beautiful locations include grass fields, waterfalls, trails, and almost every outdoor location. Taking high-quality photos doesn’t require a professional! Grab a friend (or a few friends) and your phone. Even if you don’t want to stage a photoshoot, it’s so easy to recreate Pinterest photos, candid photos of your friends, outfit pictures, and nature close-ups. Photograph whatever your heart finds beautiful!

Play a Sport

If you’re looking for something more active to do, try out new sports with a group of friends. One of the most popular sports lately is pickleball. It is so much fun to get outside, get moving, and have some competition with your friends.

Take a Walk

Going for a nice stroll clears your mind, reduces stress, and gets your body moving. Take a walk by yourself and listen to your favorite podcast or playlist, or you can bring a friend to chat. If you want to challenge yourself a little, try a hike or bike at a nearby trail or mountain. Chewacla State Park has many trail options ranging from the short interpretive Sweet Shrub Trail to the more challenging mountain biking trails built by the Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP). Many of these result in a beautiful waterfall view.

Watch the Sunrise/Sunset

Auburn sunsets and sunrises are so beautiful! Wake up early to start your day with a stunning view. If you’re not a morning person, watch the sunset at night. The views from the top of the graduate, Red Barn, and almost anywhere on campus are always dreamy.

It's so important to get outside to boost your mental state and your overall health. There's no better time than now to get outside and get moving!

Be Well, Auburn.