We live in an era of constant distractions, whether they come from other people or from various devices that we use all the time. This constant exposure to stimulation and various content can lead to a lack of focus which can then lead to lower performance at work and at school. That’s why it’s important to take a break and do some activities, preferably outdoors, that can help improve concentration. Spots are always a good choice, even though any physical activity can be helpful for your mental and physical well-being. So if you’re feeling like you can’t concentrate, here are some outdoor activities that will benefit you:
1. Golf
Maybe this isn’t an obvious choice, but golf can help you lose weight and sleep better. Since it’s played outdoors, it can also be beneficial for your mental health and concentration. If you’re suffering from anxiety, instead of resorting to taking meds and silently suffering in your bedroom, you can instead get out and even play golf in the rain, just make sure you’re protected by a comfortable raincoat and water-resistant footwear. Besides, playing golf can help you meet interesting new people and network, which can be great for you if you’re shy approaching people and making friends.
2. Yoga
Yoga isn’t a sport, but that doesn’t mean you can’t practice it to improve your concentration levels. So, if you’re new to this ancient and wonderful discipline, you can find a local yoga group and join them in a nearby park. Morning outdoor yoga classes can definitely be a great start to your day, just be careful when doing poses for the first time so you’ll be able to avoid injuries. Also, if you’ve recently been hurt, yoga can help you heal and be more flexible. Focusing on your breathing can also help you concentrate on tasks that really matter, such as work-related projects.
3. Running
In case you can’t afford to go to the gym, running is the perfect solution, for more than one reason: it’s cheap and you can do it anytime you please — in the early morning before going to work, or late at night when the streets are quiet and there’s no one to bother you. Running can also have a positive effect on your cognitive abilities, including memory and concentration. Just don’t forget to get a quality pair of running shoes and your favorite music, but also make sure to stay hydrated at all times so you’ll be able to reap the maximum benefits from your running sessions.
4. Walking and/or hiking
For those who had no idea, there’s a difference between walking and hiking. Walking includes urban areas such as streets and even moving on a treadmill indoors, while hiking is exclusively about being outside in natural settings and exploring places such as forests, mountains, and deserts. If you’re intending to burn calories, then hiking is definitely a better choice, but for those who just wish to move, then walking can also be helpful. When it comes to concentration, it’s been reported that regular 20-minute walks in the park can help those suffering from ADHD. So, if you’re looking to do something that involves spending time outdoors, then taking walks is a great place to start.
Bottom line
Being active is a sure way to live longer and be healthier, so whether you’re suffering from lack of concentration, or just want to get in shape, then opting for one of these activities can definitely improve your focus and help you be more productive. Also, if you prefer some other activities such as aerobics, outdoor meditation, and any other group sport, feel free to include those into your routine, just remember to drink enough water and avoid too extreme temperatures. If you start being more active outdoors, soon you’ll see the benefits next time you’re required to concentrate on something less engaging.