Juliet Stouffer
Recently, I took a morning walk in the Natural Lands, and I got it. “This is why they do it,” I thought to myself. “This is why people go on walks.”
I’d just made a left at the far boundary of the soccer fields. In front of me, an expanse of yellow grass swished to greet the baby blue sky as though painting it that perfect color. A gentle breeze tumbled across my face in harmonious balance with the sunshine. I took a deep breath and it went straight to my immune system. Proof of life? Proven.
“If I went for a walk every day,” I postulated, “I bet I’d feel a lot happier.”
Dear reader, I’m not sharing this magical moment with you to reiterate the numerous health benefits — physical and mental — of getting outside. You’ve likely heard these sentiments at length, and you likely know that they’re completely true. Instead, I’m here because I can guess that you, as a St. Olaf student or community member, are a pretty busy person. It can be hard to find the time to get outside, let alone scrounge up the spare brainpower to think of something to do. Read on for my best suggestions!
Go hammocking. Perhaps the best investment I made in college was my hammock. Try it once and you’ll realize what ’mockers everywhere have come to know: a hammock can be whatever you want it to be. Bed, desk, or swing (not recommended), your hammock is a multipurpose tool for enjoying the outdoors on your own terms. Too busy for a hike? Hammock with your homework! Feeling tired? Rediscover what it means to nap from the comfort of your personal, private pod. Invite some friends to ’mock with you for a hangout that’s elevated in a whole new way!
Try out a new spring sport. Recently, I joined an intramural sand volleyball team, and while I have yet to successfully hit the ball over the net, I’ve had more fun trying than I ever thought was possible. Did you say something about my serving technique? I was distracted by the sunset! The next time the competitive spirit moves you, recruit some pals and set up a top-tier study break, whether that’s volleyball, ultimate frisbee, spikeball, cornhole, or slacklining.
Explore downtown Northfield. It’s about a 20-minute walk from campus to the heart of the city, which is lined with places to shop, eat, and relax. There are bus transportation options to get you there, too. Whether you choose to enjoy a morning walk to your favorite coffee shop or work your way through the flurry flavors at The Blast to find your new favorite, there’s always something fun to do downtown once you get there.