Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
It’s that time of year! Now more than ever, we would like to encourage you to be a participant of #OptOutside.
Six years ago, the movement began to encourage people to spend Black Friday outside.
In 2020, the outdoors has provided us with a vast playground to enjoy and share with our community. With all the changes that continue to occur in our everyday lives, being in the outdoors provides physical and mental relief.
If you need a different topic to discuss over Thanksgiving turkey, share these positive benefits of being outdoors!
When was the last time you whistled? Do you enjoy singing? A perfect place to stretch your comfort zone is outside! The flora and fauna are a wonderful audience, and they will put on a show for you as well. Listening to nature sounds provides a serene experience, so be sure to get outside at different times throughout the day.
Want a few minutes to call a loved one? Grab your coat, head to a local park or trail, and talk while you walk. Describe what you are seeing and create a colorful discussion. Physical activity in a green space can improve cognitive control, short and long-term memory, and overall brain function. Children who walk 20 minutes in a park concentrate in school longer and have better participation. For more benefits, take a look at these points from the National Park Service.
It is important to acknowledge that even with the ability to be outdoors, there are measures you can take to enjoy #vaoutdoors in a responsible way. After you enjoy some pumpkin pie, practice these three safety steps:
Please visit our full list of recommendations.
Keep nature natural. Take your trash with you when you leave the park or trail. Encourage your family to be on the lookout for trash along your path. Making a family game out of garbage collecting could be a new holiday tradition!
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation encourages the exploration of many fun, safe and educational adventures. When you head outdoors and share those experiences with others, we appreciate any feedback and encourage you to take and share your own #OptOutside #dcrvirginia adventures with us on our social media platforms.
Categories
Green and Clean | State Parks
Tags
leave no trace | state parks
