Opt Outside this Black Friday
It’s the day after Thanksgiving. You don’t have to worry about cooking—the leftovers are waiting. You still have friends and family in town, and you’re looking for something to do. Look no further than the Great Outdoors! There is no better way to burn off the calories from turkey and pumpkin pie than to explore nature and spend quality time outside.
There are so many opportunities to go outside, whether to a nearby state park, greenway, or public land. And you don’t have to be a serious athlete and commit to a rigorous hike, simply spending some quality time outside- even if it is at your local park or a stroll through your neighborhood- enables you to receive the many health benefits that come from connecting with Mother Nature. Beyond the obvious benefits from physical activity, spending time outdoors helps reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy level. So even if you’re not feeling like climbing a mountain, you still have plenty of ways to #OptOutside this Friday—or any day.
Skipping the mall on Black Friday can be an opportunity to try activities that lend themselves to appreciating your surroundings and being thankful for the open spaces and protected lands our state provides. Consider listening to natural sounds and recording those that resonate with you, or log all the animals you encounter or the birds you see. You can also go fishing, explore starry skies or find a place “off the beaten path” that you have always been meaning to explore- you’re likely to experience something new and rejuvenating.
You can also keep an eye on the many events being hosted by New York State Parks and the Friends groups that support them. A listing of events in your corner of the state will be added to Park’s Events website here.
No matter how you choose to spend your time outside, enjoy it. Take a minute to appreciate the little things, like scattered seeds of native plants, and the big things, like breath-taking scenic views. Whatever you choose to do, you will not regret Opting Outside this Thanksgiving. And be sure to share your adventures with us! Use the hashtags #ParksAndTrailsNY and #OptOutside and tag us on Facebook @parksandtrailsny, on Instagram @parkstrailsny or email them to ptny@ptny.org. We can’t wait to see and share your explorations.