Small Ways I Spend Time Outdoors Everyday
I used to think I needed a trip on the calendar to feel refreshed.
Somewhere beautiful. Somewhere far away. Somewhere that would shake me out of routine and remind me there’s more to life than schedules and responsibilities. And while travel absolutely does that for me, I’ve learned something over the past few years — the same sense of grounding I feel sitting on the beach in St. John can also be found a few steps outside my back door.
Being outdoors doesn’t have to be dramatic or perfectly styled to matter. It can be as simple as morning coffee on the porch, a slow walk, or a few quiet minutes sitting still. Those small moments have started to shape my days in ways that travel once did — helping me slow down, pay attention, and feel more present.
This is what outdoor living looks like for me right now. Not always big adventures, but daily ones. And honestly, they’ve made all the difference.
Morning Coffee on the Porch
Most mornings start the same way: coffee on the porch. Thankfully, here in Georgia the weather cooperates a good 9+ months out of the year.
It’s not a whole thing. Some days it’s five minutes. Some days it’s longer. But stepping outside first thing helps me ease into the day instead of jumping straight into noise and responsibility.
I don’t bring my phone. I’m not trying to accomplish anything. I just sit. I listen to the birds. I notice the light. I let my thoughts slow down before the to-do list shows up.
That small habit has become an anchor for me. A reminder that I don’t have to rush everything. And that God shows up just as much in quiet moments as He does in busy ones.
If you want to try this:
- Take your coffee or tea outside before checking your phone
- Sit, even if it’s only for a few minutes
- Let the morning be what it is — no pressure to “do” anything
Walks With Bentley
One of the simplest ways I enjoy the outdoors is walking or playing fetch with Bentley, our goofy, super sweet golden retriever.
These walks aren’t about steps or fitness goals. They’re slow. He sniffs everything. Sometimes we stop more than we walk — and honestly, that’s kind of the point.
Being outside with him forces me to notice things I usually rush past. It pulls me into the present moment in a way very few things do.
Some of my clearest thoughts happen on those walks. Sometimes they’re more prayer walks than just walks… sometimes it’s just fresh air and gratitude.
Why this works so well:
- It’s already part of the day
- No extra planning required
- It naturally slows your pace
If you have a dog, lean into those moments. If you don’t, even a short walk around your yard or neighborhood can do the same thing.
Sitting Still and Clearing My Head
This might be my favorite way to use our backyard — and the simplest.
Sometimes I go outside with no plan at all. I sit down. I breathe. I quiet my mind as best I can. And I listen.
I’m not always looking for answers. I’m just creating space. Space to hear God without all the background noise of life.
This isn’t about doing it perfectly. Some days my mind wanders. Some days I just sit there. But showing up matters more than how it looks.
A few gentle ideas:
- Sit outside without distractions
- Take a few slow breaths
- Ask God what you need to notice today
- Let silence be enough
Snipping Flowers and Checking on the Garden
The last way I regularly enjoy the outdoors is staying connected to the garden- and my latest gardening efforts.
Snipping flowers for the kitchen or checking on how things are growing keeps me grounded in the season I’m in — both literally and figuratively. Some things thrive. Some struggle. Some take time. Others surprise you.
Gardening has taught me that growth isn’t rushed. And neither am I meant to be.
These small check-ins remind me that care matters. Consistency matters. And that beauty often comes from tending what’s right in front of you.
Easy ways to build this in:
- Check plants while dinner is cooking
- Snip a few blooms to bring inside
- Notice what’s changing, even if it’s subtle
The Big Picture
Enjoying the outdoors here at home doesn’t require a big makeover or elaborate plans. It’s come from choosing presence over perfection.
Morning coffee. Slow walks. Sitting still.
These moments don’t just fill time — they shape how my days feel. And they remind me that peace isn’t found in doing more, but in paying attention.
If you’ve been overlooking your outdoor space, let this be your invitation to step outside today. Not for a project. Not for a plan. Just for a moment.
That’s usually where the good stuff meets us.
