It’s times like these you wish you could carry Mother Nature right into your living space. Now more than ever, that thirst for adventure, that desire to plan your next epic trip, and that need to see and experience more nature seems top of mind. While you may feel guilty, know that these desires are primal and what makes us human. At StorQuest, we get it and that’s why we’ve put together a list of things you can do to bring the outdoors into your home.
Read for the Sake of Adventure
Reading great books about epic experiences are perfect for armchair adventures. Luckily, there is no shortage of great reads – on the high seas, in the high peaks, and over the high trails. You name your interest and you’ll find a number of choices. We suggest starting with Mark Adams’ Turn Left at Machu Picchu, mountaineer David Roberts’ Moments of Doubt, Rick Ridgeway’s The Big Open, and Mark Sundeen’s The Man Who Quit Money.
Sit Back & Watch
Film’s have the capacity to transport us away from the mental and physical conditions of our present-day circumstances. They also have the ability to inspire us to live big and with the intent of making room for awesome adventures – big and small. So, make time to watch these greats – new and old. Alex Honnold’s "Free Solo" about his epic climb and his disciplined commitment to craft. Need motivation to stay fit? Watch "Iron Cowboy" about one man’s quest to do 50 Ironman races in 50 days in 50 states. Or watch "Losing Sight of Shore" and learn about strength, suffering, and the simplicity of moving through your days one stroke at a time.
Add Natural Scents
Another way to bring the outside into your home is by adding the smell of nature. Nature is as much about scents as it is about visuals and experiences. Use diffusers, candles, and sprays and spread the aroma of the things you miss – like pine, rain, citrus, lavender, and yes, even fresh-cut grass.
Soothing Sounds of Nature
Like the advice above, the sounds of nature have the same effect on your senses. Create a nature-inspired playlist that includes sounds that mimic the ocean and the waves, bird calls and thunderstorms. Sit back, close your eyes, and imagine yourself in the scene. If something with more tempo feels better in the moment, try Michael Franti’s "The Sound of Sunshine." You’ll be feeling the warmth of the sun by the second beat.
Listen & Learn
Setting aside 45 minutes to an hour to listen to someone else tell you how to live, celebrate, optimize, hike, or survive may seem tough without that long commute to work or your go-to run through city streets. But listening is immersive and if you can find the right podcast to hook and draw you in, then you’ll want more time to devote to that mechanical sense that speaks the language of the brain, even if that means sitting still in your living room. Start with Gale Straub’s She Explores, Laura Krantz’s WildThing, and Tim Ferriss’ The Tim Ferriss Show.
Every Adventure Is Part of Your Journey
At StorQuest, we want to navigate this new normal together and help you make room for new adventures – regardless if they are from your living room. As always, we’re here for you whenever you’re ready to #MakeRoomForAwesome in your life, no matter the circumstances.