By: Kyle Culler
In today’s digital age, where the majority of our waking hours are spent in front of screens, it’s no surprise that burnout has become a common issue. But there’s a remedy that isn’t a pill or an app — it’s the great outdoors. Engaging in outdoor activities not only helps combat burnout but can also inspire creativity and improve overall well-being. In this blog we will discuss what burnout is and how it develops, the benefits of spending time in nature, and the activities you can do to spend more time outdoors.
Understanding Burnout
According to the American Psychological Association, the definition of burnout is the, “physical, emotional, or mental exhaustion accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance, and negative attitudes toward oneself and others.” It results from stress caused by extended periods of mental and/or physical exertion. Burnout can stem from many facets of life, but one of the leading contributors is workload and screen time. Studies have shown that excessive screen time can lead to increased stress levels and negatively impact mental health, therefore, it’s important to find ways in which you can limit it.
The Healing Power of Nature
Nature has a remarkable ability to heal and rejuvenate. Spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits, which include: improved physical health, mental health, and creativity. Outdoor activities that require physical exertion like hiking for example, help improve cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and boost physical fitness. In addition to physical health benefits, spending time in nature has been proven to enhance mood and lower cortisol levels, reducing stress (a key factor that causes burnout). Lastly, nature is a rich source of design inspiration, which is incredibly helpful for me as a graphic designer; the organic shapes, colors, and patterns found in the world are great for influencing design concepts and creativity. Below are some of the ways I like to spend my time outdoors and how each activity has benefited me personally and professionally.
Outdoor Activities That Help Me Combat Burnout
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Skiing & Ski Touring
One of my favorite activities has to be skiing. During the winter months, it’s a great way to get an adrenaline pumping workout (especially when touring), while also taking in the scenic views. The serenity of skiing in snow-covered mountains is an awesome escape from the everyday stresses of life. In addition, the natural landscapes and designs I see on people’s skis and snowboards assists in sparking new ideas. Lastly, sometimes I will go touring early in the morning before work and it gives me a sense of accomplishment that motivates me and helps me focus on the tasks ahead. -
Hiking & Trail Running
Another great way to get a break from screen time is hiking or trail running. The part I like best about this activity is that it requires minimal gear and prep, so it’s something that I can easily do any day of the week. It’s a great way to clear my mind and immerse myself in nature. Also, it’s helpful in drawing inspiration for design because I’m able to discover new color palettes that I see out in nature. Additionally, living in the Southwest, I can even get ideas from pictographs that I see when out in the desert. -
Camping & Backpacking
One of the best ways I have found to leave work at work and undergo a complete digital detox is by camping or backpacking. There is something so peaceful and freeing about spending time in a remote location with no cell service or people. It allows me to get more in touch with nature and observe my surroundings. It also gives me time to self-reflect and recharge, which is the ultimate antidote for burnout. -
Paddle Boarding
When my mind is racing and I’m feeling stressed, paddle boarding is my go-to activity. Being out on the water has a calming effect, that instantly relieves stress and helps me leave my worries behind. In addition, it’s a great full-body workout that can help improve physical fitness and mental-health. -
Mountain Biking
When it gets warmer and skiing is no longer an option, mountain biking is the activity I turn to, to get an adrenaline rush. Mountain biking is an extremely fun activity that helps clear my mind by focusing on the terrain that I’m riding; it’s one of the few activities where I consistently enter a flow-state, which has to be one of the best feelings. It’s also a great way to explore new areas and feel a sense of adventure because you’re able to get places much faster and go much farther. -
Fishing
One activity that I’ve gotten into recently since moving to Utah is fishing. Even if I’m not catching any fish, it’s a great way to get some fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, and take in the beauty of my surroundings. I’m not the best at sitting still, so I really enjoy fishing because it gives me something to do while being outside. When I do actually catch a fish, it can help generate design ideas because some fish have really cool coloring and patterns that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
Integrating Outdoor Activities Into Your Routine
To start feeling the benefits of outdoor activities, as with any activity, consistency is key. One way to develop consistency is to set realistic goals for yourself and gradually incorporate these activities into your weekly routine. Weekends and holidays are fantastic times for longer outdoor escapes and developing a healthy habit of getting outside. It should never feel like a routine or mundane task, so if you ever start feeling this way, try a new activity or going at a different time of day to switch it up and be more spontaneous.
Conclusion
Balancing screen time with outdoor activities is a great way for maintaining and improving mental and physical health. Nature offers a powerful antidote to the stress and burnout associated with modern life. By making a conscious effort to engage in outdoor activities, you can enhance your well-being, gain inspiration for your creative endeavors, and lead a more balanced life.
Resources:
https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout
