Feature Photo by David Kanigan
Hi, Suzi here! While January might seem like the perfect time to hibernate indoors, it’s actually an incredible month to bundle up, step outside, and reconnect with nature. After the whirlwind of the holidays, embracing the great outdoors can be a refreshing reset for both your body and mind. The crisp air, tranquil landscapes, and smaller crowds give January a quiet charm that’s hard to resist.
Personally, I’ve started walking more this month, and it’s been a game-changer! Spending time outside not only lifts my spirits and helps clear my thoughts, it also helps fight off the dreaded winter blues. Plus, did you know that walking outdoors triggers the release of endorphins—the feel-good chemicals that brighten your mood?
Engaging with nature is also a powerful way to cultivate mindfulness. It encourages you to focus on the here and now, offering a much-needed pause from the chaos of everyday life. While summer adventures may feel tempting to plan, there’s so much to enjoy in the present moment—let’s make the most of it!
THE PERKS OF BEING OUTDOORS
There’s something enchanting about stepping outdoors and inhaling the crisp air, particularly in winter. It’s not just a pick-me-up—science supports the mental health advantages of immersing ourselves in nature. Research indicates that even a brief walk in a natural environment can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Additionally, when the sun shines, you receive a dose of vitamin D, which is essential for mood regulation and combating seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
A quick 10-minute walk can work wonders to refresh your mind and prepare you to face the day with a more optimistic perspective. Whether you’re wandering through a nearby park, hiking a scenic trail, or savouring a quiet moment on a bench with a warm cup of coffee, the outdoors offers a unique sense of tranquility and connection to the world around you.
Thinking & Reasoning
When we spend extended periods in urban settings or at the office, we may encounter sensory overload, leading to tension and mental fatigue. Research indicates that our minds and bodies are more at ease in natural environments. This connection to nature enhances feelings of pleasure and can improve our ability to concentrate and focus, as highlighted by the Mental Health Foundation.
Being outdoors also has calming effects on our mental state. Nature offers a much-needed respite, allowing us to escape the pressures of daily life momentarily. Additionally, it can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills. For instance, if you’re facing a mental block while writing a paper or struggling to resolve a work-related issue, consider stepping outside for some fresh air. A leisurely stroll around your neighbourhood or office might just lead you to the solutions you’ve been seeking.
Physical Wellness
Spending time in nature often inspires us to walk, bike, hike, or kayak more frequently. Generally, people engage in regular physical activity while surrounded by natural settings. Therefore, simply stepping outside can assist in maintaining a healthy weight or even aid in weight loss by boosting activity levels.
Research indicates that being in nature positively impacts our bodies by lowering cortisol levels, reducing muscle tension, and easing the strain on our cardiovascular systems, resulting in a decreased heart rate and lower blood pressure. Frequent exposure to the outdoors may contribute to reduced heart disease rates too (crazy, right?!). Additionally, nature helps enhance our vitamin D levels, which are vital for the health of our bones, blood cells, and immune system.
Mental Health
Engaging with nature can significantly reduce anxiety levels while alleviating stress and anger. Although exercise is beneficial, being outdoors amplifies its effects. Consistent access to green spaces has been associated with a lower risk of depression and enhanced concentration and attention. Spending time outside fosters social interactions, whether with family, friends, or even new acquaintances on a hiking trail.
Spending time outdoors regularly can also lead to noticeable improvements in your sleep quality. Natural light plays a vital role in regulating your body’s sleep-wake cycles, helping to align your internal clock. By stepping outside and soaking up daylight each day, you can enhance your ability to enjoy restful, rejuvenating sleep at night.
For those in the UK, where sunlight can be fleeting, it’s especially important to seize every opportunity. If you spot the sun peeking through the clouds, don’t hesitate—head outdoors and make the most of it!
Combat SAD
Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly known as SAD, is a form of depression that typically manifests during certain seasons, particularly in the winter months. This condition is thought to be associated with decreased sunlight exposure, which can disrupt your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and lead to feelings of lethargy, sadness, and low energy. Symptoms of SAD can vary from mild to severe and often include difficulty concentrating, alterations in sleep patterns, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness.
One of the most effective strategies to counteract SAD is to enhance your exposure to natural light, and spending time outdoors is an excellent way to achieve this. Even on overcast days, natural light is significantly brighter than indoor lighting and aids in regulating the production of melatonin (a hormone that influences sleep) and serotonin (the neurotransmitter associated with happiness). These two chemicals are crucial for mood stabilisation and maintaining consistent energy levels.
If you’re feeling the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or battling the winter blues, making time to step outside each day can be a simple yet powerful way to boost your overall well-being.
FUN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES TO TRY THIS JANUARY
Glamping
If you adore the concept of camping but aren’t quite ready to brave the January chill, glamping is the ideal alternative. Imagine yourself nestled in a warm, cosy tent or cabin, surrounded by stunning winter scenery. I went glamping myself back in September, you can read all about my experience here. And if you’re looking for some location recommendations, I couldn’t hype up these place more:
Jackson’s Cabin in Devon: This romantic retreat blends artistic charm and craftsmanship, with handcrafted furniture and vibrant, colourful touches inspired by life in Mexico and extensive travels. The cozy cabin features a double bed, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a modern shower room with Mexican tiles and a handmade copper sink.
Outside, a private wood-fired hot tub nestled among trees adds a magical touch to this intimate getaway. For the more adventurous, you can explore South Devon’s attractions, from canoeing on the River Dart and hiking on Dartmoor to surfing at Bantham Beach and discovering hidden coves. After a day of exploration, relax by the wood burner or soak under the stars for a truly restorative experience.
Toller Hut in Dorset: Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is situated at Lake Farm, surrounded by woodlands, open countryside, and natural springs that feed a private lake. While its location offers access to the Jurassic Coast, ancient bluebell woods, scenic trails, and award-winning restaurants, the on-site charm of Toller Hut is hard to resist. This glamping retreat features a Hikki wood-fired bath, a cold outdoor shower, and a pontoon for wild swimming, making it a haven for nature lovers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Ty Nodyn, once a barn for Jersey cows, has been transformed into a charming retreat with a full kitchen, a king-sized bed framed by pianos, and walls adorned with sheet music and vintage 40s posters. The cottage also features a keyboard, guitar, and a wood-burner for cozy nights, while the absence of light pollution offers breathtaking stargazing.
Located at the heart of Nantgwynfaen, Ty Nodyn provides access to the on-site games barn, or for a night out, take a short walk to the nearby gastropub in Penrhiwllan. While the cottage offers plenty of relaxation, West Wales also offers coastal paths, beaches, and unique attractions.
Imagine relishing all the joys of camping—stargazing, bonfires, and the peace of nature—while still enjoying the comforts of a hotel. In a previous article, I explored the concept of glamping, and it’s truly a fantastic way to recharge and reconnect with the outdoors, especially during the serene winter months. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a peaceful retreat, glamping offers the perfect balance of nature and luxury.
Related article – Rustic Retreats: Glamping Under the Stars
Gardening
January is the perfect time to show your garden some love and start preparing it for the upcoming growing season. While it might seem early, there are plenty of tasks you can tackle, such as pruning, clearing debris, and planning your spring planting. Although I don’t have a garden in London, I enjoy collecting tips and ideas for the garden at my parents’ house, which I visit regularly. I’m always on the lookout for inspiring outdoor spaces where I can learn new gardening techniques and get motivated for the year ahead.
Kew Gardens in London is one of my favourite places to visit. Not only their winter garden is great to look out, but they also provide expert guidance on winter gardening. The Eden Project in Cornwall is another great resource if you want to learn more. Here, you can participate in a variety of workshops that will surely inspire your spring garden plans.
Engaging in these activities can be surprisingly therapeutic, and there’s a unique satisfaction in getting your hands dirty while envisioning the blooms and vegetables to come. If you’re looking for inspiration, I’ve shared some of my favourite garden preparation tips in a previous post, so feel free to check that out!
Related articles – My Edible Garden
Winter Hikes
Winter hikes are often overlooked, yet they are truly breathtaking. Trails can transform into peaceful wonderlands, and the satisfying crunch of snow or frost beneath your feet enhances the experience. Whether you’re planning to hike on foot or with a bike, here are some favourite hiking destinations in the UK you could consider this January.
- Snowdonia National Park, located in Wales, offers stunning trails for all skill levels.
- The Lake District in Cumbria provides postcard-worthy scenery with its wintery lakes and mountains.
- Arthur’s Seat is in Edinburgh, and is a relatively easy hike boasting magnificent views of the city and its surroundings.
Be sure to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear, and don’t forget to bring a thermos filled with something hot to enjoy along the way. Seek out local trails that remain open throughout the year, and if you’re fortunate, you may even encounter some wildlife more active during the colder months.
Green Gym
Many people are turning to ‘Green Gyms’ as a rewarding way to spend time outdoors and disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Run by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) in the UK, Green Gyms are free outdoor sessions where participants engage in practical conservation activities such as planting trees, sowing meadows, and creating wildlife ponds.
These activities not only foster environmental stewardship but also combat social isolation by creating opportunities to connect with others. Volunteers gain a sense of purpose and achievement while contributing to their local communities.
Here’s what to expect from weekly Green Gym sessions:
- Duration: Typically 3–4 hours
- Guidance: Led by trained and supportive leaders
- Flexibility: Activities suitable for all fitness levels, ranging from light gardening to more vigorous conservation work
- Community: A welcoming environment to meet like-minded locals, complete with a social tea break
- Skill-building: Opportunities to learn new techniques and enhance your knowledge of conservation
These sessions allow you to join a group of dedicated volunteers to plant trees, grow food, manage woodlands, and more. With TCV’s skilled project leaders ensuring a safe and inclusive experience, you’ll find Green Gyms are an excellent way to give back to the environment while nurturing your own well-being.
Good Gym
This community combines fitness with purpose by running, walking, or cycling to assist local organisations and isolated older adults with practical tasks. Members enjoy flexible participation, social events, and support to achieve personal fitness goals.
Both the Green and the Good Gym initiatives help participants connect with others, contribute to meaningful causes, and integrate physical activity into their routines. Whether you’re passionate about environmental conservation or supporting your community, these programmes offer rewarding ways to stay active, enjoy the outdoors and give back.
Birdwatching
As weird as it may sound to do some birdwatching in Winter, many bird species actually remain active during the colder months, and with fewer leaves on the trees, they become easier to spot. This is one of those activities that is definitely on my bucket list for this year, and after a lot of research, I’ve discovered to most coveted locations to birdwatch at.
- RSPB Minsmere, located in Suffolk, is a sanctuary for wintering birds such as ducks, geese, and swans.
- Slimbridge Wetland Centre, situated in Gloucestershire, is an excellent place for observing migratory birds.
- The Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast is renowned for its seabirds and breathtaking coastal scenery.
But if you can’t travel to go birdwatching you can just grab your binoculars, put on a warm jacket, and venture to a nearby park or even your backyard. You may be pleasantly surprised by the variety of feathered friends you discover there. It’s a tranquil, meditative experience that connects you with the rhythms of nature.
Winter Picnics
Who says picnics are only for the summer months? Bundle up, pack a basket filled with hearty, warm dishes like soup in a thermos or freshly baked treats, and find a picturesque location to unwind. The beauty of Britain is that there is a park at literally every corner so no need to travel far to spend your lunchtime out in the sunlight. Of course, don’t forget to bring blankets, a portable heater, or even a small firepit if it’s permitted. Enjoying a winter picnic with friends or family is a wonderful way to create lasting memories while appreciating the beauty of the season. And guess what, it’s free!
and finally....
There you go—a delightful blend of relaxing, enjoyable, and refreshing outdoor activities to enhance your January blues. Whether you’re glamping in a lavish tent, getting your garden ready for spring, or just enjoying a winter stroll during your lunch break, these activities are a fantastic way to celebrate the season and support your mental and physical well-being. What’s your favourite outdoor activity during this season? Share it in the comments!