With most of the U.S. residents under orders to stay home to help slow the spread of coronavirus, many have turned to outdoor activities to replace their gyms and help themselves stay entertained, especially as the weather is getting warmer. People who live in apartment communities, or homes without backyards, are trying to find ways to stay fit and healthy, while also following state and community guidelines. Many states and communities have implemented guidelines and rules to follow during this time, but most still allow for people to exercise and walk their dogs—as long as they maintain social distancing and any other orders in place.
In many cases, being outside can provide many benefits, such as being physically and mentally healthier. Plus, everybody needs a daily dose of vitamin D, right? Along with these benefits, going outside can also help you overcome “cabin fever” and feeling frustrated from being cooped up inside.
Here are a few tips to enjoy the outdoors while social distancing.
Stay near your community
Since many states and communities are discouraging people from visiting busy parks, pathways, beaches, and campgrounds—or have either closed or limited access to them—it’s best if you stay near home when going outside. Staying local can help other popular recreational areas stay less crowded, putting yourself and fewer people at risk. Additionally, when you travel farther from home, you usually need to get gas for your car, stop for lunch, or take bathroom breaks on the way to your destination, potentially coming into contact with more people. You’ll also be able to avoid crowded parking lots. If the recreational areas near your home are overcrowded, consider turning back and going another day or time when there are fewer people there. 444 Social, an apartment community located in Lincolnshire, is near the Lake County Forest Preserves and Des Plaines River Trail, where residents can take long walks or ride bicycles and enjoy the local foliage and animals. Along with forest preserves and trails, 444 Social is also located near large dog parks where residents can walk or run with their dogs.
Experience nature alone
Now that social distancing is the new normal, it’s best to enjoy nature either by yourself or only with those in your household. This means that group hikes, picnics, and team sports are out, and solo walks, runs, or bike rides are in. Experiencing nature alone can bring peace and tranquility into your life, and can be especially uplifting during this chaotic time.
Exercise at less popular times
Often, there are more people exercising outside during morning hours and at the end of a workday. Try going outside when fewer people are out and about, such as during your lunch break, early morning, or late at night. That way, you can avoid potentially crowded pathways and sidewalks while exercising.
Enjoy nature at home
Whether you have a backyard or not, you can enjoy the great outdoors from your home. Explore nature through podcasts, books, videos, magazines, and documentaries. Discover the best nature, science, and technology podcasts on a list curated by BBC Earth. Or, tune in to one of several National Geographic docu-series available on Disney+. Check out Goodreads’ Popular Nature Books list. Many national parks are also offering virtual tours or live webcams to help people experience scenic views from their homes. You’ll be impressed with the number of resources available that encourage you to enjoy nature from your home.
Follow the CDC guidelines
By now, most people are aware of the CDC guidelines, but here is a refresher for you to use while you are outside. While you are outdoors, be aware of what you touch. Avoid touching your face and wash your hands as frequently as you can. You may want to bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer to use whenever you don’t have access to running water to wash your hands. Stay 6 feet away from others. If required in your state or city, wear a cloth face covering. These things can help protect yourself and others from getting sick.
Accessing the outdoors
Even though people who live in apartment communities don’t have backyards, they generally have many amenities and nearby recreational areas to keep them physically and mentally healthy. 444 Social is located in a wonderful neighborhood with nearby nature reserves and trails. The apartment community also provides residents with a private ½ mile trail around the community for running, walking, or bicycle riding.
Interested in learning more about our apartment complex in Lincolnshire? Contact us here for more information.