Clinical Editor: Megan Dodson, PA-C
Social connections help us stay mentally healthy. Think of “people time” like “gas” in the car of your mental health that keeps it going, especially if you’re an extrovert. Although the hot days of summer may be coming to a close, you shouldn't hunker down inside quite yet! With winter coming on, it’s a great idea to make good use of the fall weather while it is here. Here are some low-cost, outdoor fall activities that our Behavioral Health Specialists put together to help you spend more time with the people who mean the most to you.
1. Outdoor art
Try buying a cheap set of paints or canvas, and express your artistic side. Sit next to some friends or family while you work on an art project. Make sure to talk, laugh and joke!
2. “Sit and Stitch” knitting or crochet circle
You may already have the materials to do this. For this low-cost fun fall activity, invite some people to your favorite outdoor place, bring fold-up chairs or utilize park benches. Talk while you knit, purl and crochet your way to a new warm fall scarf.
3. Gardening or planter decorating
Play in the dirt while you garden. Studies show that gardening can reduce stress while providing beneficial sunshine and physical activity. Consider planting low-cost spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils and grape hyacinths. Fall is the perfect time to plant them. Enlist friends and grandkids for a fun outdoor activity.
4. Pumpkin patches and pumpkin carving
Several pumpkin patches are open to the public where you can find your new favorite Jack O'Lantern or fall decoration. It could be helpful to call before you go to find out how busy it may be. Carve outdoors if you have a patio. Be sure to take a trash bucket or a plastic bag to catch those scraps!
5. Apple orchard
Going to an apple orchard hearkens back to an earlier time, and will give you a dose of fall spirit. Most apple orchards have a low admission price, and the apples are cheap and plentiful. Call to find out what apple varieties are available and any other activities the orchard may have. Many apple orchards also offer warm cider and fresh cider doughnuts, so you can make a day of it!
6. Remote-controlled vehicle games
If you’re looking for a creative new way to spend time with with your loved ones, consider buying a cheap remote-controlled car, boat or inflatable. There are many good ones at a low price point that you can find online. Take advantage of the nice weather and enjoy this activity at a place of your choosing.
7. Fishing
Always check local information about permits and when fish are active. Whether or not they are biting, fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors near beautiful bodies of water with family and friends alike.
8. Feed ducks and geese
Bring cut-up grapes and romaine or green leaf lettuce (bread is not good for waterfowl like ducks and geese), and help the geese and ducks fuel up for their great migrations. Whether it’s sitting outside, seeing cute animals, or just being with friends or family, feeding ducks and geese is the full package!
9. Haunted houses and Corn mazes
Fall’s the perfect time to get a little spooky — check out a haunted house for some good scares or wander through a corn maze with friends. Grab some hot cider, bundle up, and make a night of it. It’s all part of the cozy, creepy fun that makes autumn awesome.
10. Go leaf collecting
As the leaves cascade from the trees in the coming weeks, consider taking a walk around and picking up beautiful leaves you find with friends and family. At the end, delight your loved ones by offering to trade leaves with them. If you have some crayons and paper, you can memorialize your day with leaf rubbings without spending a cent.
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