14 Outdoor Hobbies to Strengthen the Mind, Body, and Soul

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground – everything that has the breath of life in it – I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:29-30, NIV

Spending time in outdoor hobbies and activities is one of the best ways to help with your mental and physical health. Fresh air, sunshine, and moving your body are tools to cope with depression, anxiety, grief, or trauma. The outdoors provides opportunities for those with ADHD and autism to move around. Taking a walk is a good way to set boundaries with toxic people.

Some outdoor hobbies can be enjoyed solo, others invite you into social interactions. Some require a lot of equipment. Others have little investment other than a good pair of shoes. Here are some ideas for outdoor activities you can try.

Solo outdoor hobbies

Walking.

While rather unoriginal, or perhaps the most original of exercises, walking is the simplest way to get outside and move your body. Make it less about getting from point A to point B, and more about enjoying the experience. Don’t make it about tracking steps or power walking. Turn your phone off and listen to the sounds around you.

If you want to make walking more of a sport, take up golf. The green grass and cultivated landscape can provide many pleasant experiences outdoors. You can golf alone or with friends, create competition or just enjoy the experience.

Hiking.

You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops.

You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the wilderness overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing. — Psalm 65:9-13, NIV

To experience more of the outdoors, find hiking trails, both easy and difficult. Some areas offer well-groomed trails to see waterfalls and other stunning views. Some trails will involve ups and downs, with exposure to the habitats of wild animals.

Looking for the hand of the Creator in the outdoors is a way of deepening your gratitude for the world He has made.

Biking.

Experience the outdoors at a higher speed but minus the noise and enclosure of a car. Follow rivers and paths through your neighborhood, and explore on two wheels rather than four. You can travel further and faster on a bike than you can on foot. Yet you will still be able to hear birds singing or stop to smell the roses.

Group outdoor hobbies

Tennis.

Whether with one friend, or a group, tennis is a fun and easy activity to enjoy socially. This activity raises your heart rate in a less demanding way than just running will do. Your body will be stretched, releasing oxytocin (the happy hormone).

Frisbee golf.

The whole family can get involved in this game. Frisbee golf courses can often be combined with visits to a local playground.

Volleyball and backyard activities.

This is another excellent sport to do with friends, whether in your backyard or on the beach. Find a ball, hang a string between two points, and start the game. Backyard alternatives include badminton, croquet, basketball, or getting a trampoline. Any of these activities will get you outside and moving around. Just don’t forget to hydrate!

Camping.

An extension of hiking, camping is an excellent way to experience the outdoors more intimately. Set up a tent, cook over a fire, and savor the starry skies at night. Not only is being outdoors good, but you will also develop a deeper appreciation for the indoors.

Water activities

Kayaking and paddle boarding.

Kayaking and paddle boarding provide access to lakes and rivers, and maybe small islands and inlets that are less invaded by human hands. Set aside the motorized boat for a simple paddle and kayak. The quieter mode of travel is less disruptive to the wildlife and your mind. Paddling is also an excellent upper-body workout.

Swimming.

Whether you go to a pool or try wild swimming in a lake or pond, the full-body workout is both intense and gentle. Floating in the water is good for your body as well. The breathing technique needed for swimming can also be beneficial for calming your breathing in stressful situations.

Fishing.

As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. – Matthew 4:18, NIV

Why not take a cue from the disciples and learn about fishing? From ice fishing to fly fishing, and everything in between, there are many ways to become deeply invested in fishing as a hobby. Many fishermen will talk about enjoying the quiet, as much as the thrill of the catch. It can be calming retreat from the pressures of work.

Activities involving animals

Dogs.

Having a dog requires some time spent outdoors. It forces you to go for walks, requires the outdoors for the animal to relieve itself, and generally wants to play outside more than inside. Dogs also provide a lot of emotional support to their people. Many children on the autism spectrum can benefit from having a dog to love. Do some research to find the best fit for you or your family.

Horses.

There is a lot of work required in caring for a horse, and for many people, a lot of enjoyment comes from riding. Riding is exercise, as is cleaning out stalls and keeping your equipment in good working condition. Some places offer guided rides on trails, another way to experience the vast diversity of the outdoors.

Birdwatching.

If you are looking for an activity that is more still, birdwatching may be a perfect choice. A pair of binoculars and the ability to sit still for long periods of time are required. Developing this hobby can also bring you into a social group that shares their knowledge and your interest.

Zoos and aquariums.

If getting out into the wild is not an option, go see the wild that has been brought to you. Zoos and aquariums often have both indoor and outdoor spaces. You can enjoy watching creatures from parts of the planet that are more difficult to access. This can be a solo, family, or social activity. It’s all up to you.

Conclusion

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. – Colossians 3:17, NIV

God has given us a beautiful world of plants and animals. So much variety can be found in exploring and learning about the world outside. The demands of life inside will always be there when you come back, so a take break and delight in the outdoor world that God has made.

This is my Father’s world;
O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the Ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world;
Why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King, let the heavens ring!
God reigns, let earth be glad.

– Excerpt from the hymn “This is my Father’s World” by Maltbie D. Babcock