Connecting with nature is a powerful way to enhance our well-being, reduce stress and foster a sense of community. Whether we prefer an active outdoor adventure or a quiet moment of meditation in a natural setting, NC State offers plenty of opportunities to help reconnect with nature.
From guided hikes and yoga in the park to outdoor mindfulness sessions, this blog explores various avenues to connect with nature, highlighting upcoming outdoor trips and NC State’s resources to move, meditate and thrive.
Move with Nature: Outdoor Adventures & Active Escapes
Nature is the perfect gym — no membership required! Engaging in outdoor movement helps boost our energy, unwind and improve our overall fitness.
NC State’s Outdoor Adventures program offers guided trips that help you stay active while enjoying the outdoors. Such trips allow us to explore new places, interact with nature, meet new people and learn new things. Some upcoming events include Hiking at Umstead State Park on March 30, Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Lake Raleigh on April 12 and ziplining courses on April 13. To register for these trips, visit the Wellness and Recreation Center or use the My WellRec Portal or the Wellness and Recreation App.
However, if you love to explore nature at your own pace, Wellness and Recreation’s Equipment Rentals offer affordable gear for camping, biking and water sports, which you can rent and enjoy on your own time.
Meditate Outdoors: Mindfulness in Nature
Meditation does not have to happen inside a quiet room. Nature itself provides an incredible space for mindfulness, allowing us to slow down, focus on our breath and take in the sights and sounds around us.
NC State’s Outdoor Spaces program offers various opportunities to integrate meditation into nature. FitGround at Miller Fields, Basketball Courts and Tennis Courts outside the Carmichael Gym provide spaces that combine movement and mindfulness in a refreshing outdoor setting.
Mindfulness Walks is another way that can help us practice mindful breathing while appreciating the environment, promoting stress relief and focus. Rocky Branch Trail walks offer another way to unwind, providing a scenic, tree-lined path ideal for reflective strolls or light exercise.
Those seeking solitude can find peaceful reflection at Lake Raleigh, and the Free Expression Tunnel Garden all offering serene spaces for self-guided meditation.
Stay Connected & Focus on Wellness
Connecting with nature and like-minded individuals is a great way to enhance our well-being at NC State. You can join the NC State Outdoor Adventures Facebook group to stay updated on upcoming outdoor activities, share your experiences and find adventure partners for hiking, kayaking and more. This community helps you connect with fellow students who share your passion for the outdoors.
Additionally, joining student groups like the Wolfpack Wellness or engaging in sustainability initiatives can help deepen your connection with nature while expanding your community. Whether it’s outdoor events, sustainability efforts, or simply connecting with others who appreciate the outdoors, there are plenty of ways to prioritize your well-being at NC State.
March Awareness: National Nutrition Month
March is National Nutrition Month, a time to focus on healthy eating and overall well-being. At NC State, nutritional awareness aligns perfectly with connecting to nature. Outdoor activities like hiking or yoga can complement nutrition goals by promoting physical health and mental clarity.
During these outdoor activities, fueling our bodies with nutritious snacks is essential for sustained energy and endurance. Power snacks like trail mix, protein bars and fresh fruits are some great options for foods you can take along. In fact, NC State Dining offers valuable nutrition services and wellness tips to help you make informed choices about your dietary needs.
Moreover, the NC State Extension’s Family and Consumer Sciences Program offers workshops that explore food sources and healthy eating, often emphasizing the benefits of fresh, locally grown produce. Engaging with nature through these activities, while learning about nutrition, encourages a balanced, holistic approach to wellness.
Start Your Journey Today
Connecting with nature offers countless benefits for our physical, mental and emotional well-being. NC State provides a wealth of opportunities to embrace the outdoors. Whether we are seeking to boost our fitness, reduce stress or engage in mindful meditation, there is an outdoor activity for everyone.
Take advantage of the upcoming trips, equipment rentals and wellness resources to find your path to connection. Prioritize your health, connect with nature and discover a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for outdoor adventures.
- Categories:
