5 Outdoor Hobbies to Try

Did you know that most Americans will spend nearly 90% of their lives indoors? It's unfortunate! Being outdoors actually offers some great physical and mental benefits.

Just a few of the benefits of enjoying the great outdoors include:

• Soaking up more vitamin D
• Reduce anxiety and increase feelings of well-being
• Nature walks are linked to better mental health
• Improves focus
• Increases energy

Since getting outdoors offers so many advantages, why not consider trying a hobby that will allow you to enjoy some time out in nature? Need a few ideas? Here are five to try.

Astronomy
If you love to go outside and look at the beautiful night sky, astronomy may be a perfect hobby for you. Start by learning the night sky with the unaided eye, finding stars, planets, and constellations to admire. You can move on to stargazing binoculars and eventually you may want a high-end telescope so you can get a better look at the hidden wonders in the night sky.

Motorcycle Riding
There’s nothing like the wind in your face as you ride across the countryside, and motorcycle riding is a unique hobby that offers you the chance to enjoy that special sense of freedom that comes with the open road. Riding isn’t about actually getting somewhere – it’s all about the ride. It’s about cruising on the open road and enjoying nature.

Bird Watching
Bird watching takes a bit of patience, which lets you slow down and just enjoy the nature all around you. The great thing about bird watching is that you can do it anywhere. Get started with a quality pair of binoculars, a field guide, and a notebook to keep track of the beautiful birds you see.

Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is an exhilarating hobby that allows you to see firsthand the beautiful ocean underworld. Not only will you enjoy seeing the natural wonders on the bottom of the sea, but scuba diving will also challenge you mentally and physically.

Sailing
There’s something calm and relaxing about being out on the water, and sailing offers an excellent high-seas adventure. Sailing novices will want to get started with smaller sailboats like keelboats, daysailers, or dinghies, which are easy to maneuver.

While National Hobby Month is coming to a close, we hope you’ve learned about some exciting new hobbies to try, whether you love being outdoors, you want something to spice up retirement, or you're interested in sharing a hobby with the grandkids. 2019 is the perfect time to try a new hobby that will make life more exciting while boosting overall well-being.