Get outbound in a micro way, today!

From the first breath of air after a night’s sleep, where my dreams wandered to the ends of the earth and back to my comfortable bed, I yearn to let the cool dew of a crisp morning revitalize my soiled soul. With the stars still fighting to show us the way, and the sun beginning to rise, warming the dark shadows of night, my heart jumps at just the image of a predawn jump of the lake,  I ponder the secrets of every lost civilization lurking in the jungle, revealing itself just long enough to cause a ray of desire.

Grand dreams of adventure and discovery are too big for the constraints of modern life. In order to sustain my insatiable lust for discovery, I turn to the miniscule dreams of outbound progress. Those adventures which are near, time efficient, and cost effective. Getting outbound in a micro way is a bite size serving of grand dreams that you can do in your neighborhood after work, or a short weekend away.

“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” - John Muir

Micro Outbounds are really the easiest thing we can do. All it takes is putting one foot in front of the other, clear your mind, and continue on. Once you do, you will find yourself realigned and on the right path.

“I believe that there is a subtle magnetism in Nature, which, if we unconsciously yield to it, will direct us aright.” –Henry David Thoreau

And here are my top 5 ways to get outside in an easy way:

Walk in a straight line - no seriously.  Chose an arbitrary starting point. This can be your house, the nearest trail head, or some other point of interest, take out your compass, chose a direction and go. Walk as far as you can, wandering through forest, wading streams, climbing hills, and when you can go no longer, pick a new direction. This definitely adds spice to a well used trail, or even can create a new urban playground!

Mid week overnighter - You get off work at 6pm, might as well make use of this time.

Bring your pack with you to work, and after head out to a nearby trail and make use of the week to adventure. We often complaign that we just don’t have the time to do things during the week. Plan ahead by packing your bag, planning the meal, and just do it. Use your showers at work the next morning, or leave the campsite early to make a quick stop at home first. Even large cities normally have small areas within or just outside where you can make this work!

Commute to work by human power - This has been a favorite of mine. There is nothing like taking your bike to work. I used to work 25 miles from my house, so it was a long trek, but it woke me up, gave me time to think, and really cleared my mind for the whole day. Now that I am in Zurich, I plan to take my SUP down the lake 5 miles, switch to bike, and finish with a 10 mile ride, once the winter is open. You can also “hike to work” by leaving your computer at work and bringing an extra pair of clothes the day before!

Dawn patrol - Check what time the sun is expected to rise tomorrow, and make a point to be out the door 1hr before that time. Go for a run, bike, walk, or swim. Just make sure to time your micro Outbound right and be in the right place to catch the sunrise when your hour journey is done.

After work hike/ski session - I live a 45 minute drive from the nearest ski hill. They sometimes have night skiing, but I can also bring my splitboard and skin up the track and slowly make my way down. Don’t live near a hill with snow? Make use of what you have... Try going for an evening hike, plan to pack a snack or dinner with you to ensure you don’t die of hunger.

So there you have it, these are 5 super easy ways to start adventuring more. Feed that adventurous soul of yours while increasing your short-term memory, relieving stress, and improving concentration.

Sources:

http://uk.businessinsider.com/why-being-outside-in-nature-is-healthy-2015-6?r=US&IR=T/#decrease-the-risk-of-developing-poor-vision-5

http://www.adventureplaybook.com/microadventure-ideas/