To get back on track, first you need to consider how you currently spend your time. Too often we say time has flown by without really knowing what we actually did in the duration. I suggest writing a diary for a week or two about your day-to-day activities. Based on this, you can see where most of your free time goes. Then you can evaluate to see if it serves you, the planet and the people around you well, and if there is a particular area that you would like to change.
Here are a few ideas to get your started.
Spend more time outdoors
Challenges like climbing a mountain once a month, undertaking a challenge such as the three peaks or three Munroes in a day, or plogging (jogging while litter picking) are good ways to get outdoors and do it with a purpose. Another option is to go camping more often. A low budget activity, camping gives you the perfect opportunity to explore your local areas and appreciate natural beauty. If you don’t own the right gear, borrow it from friends or local sharing groups.
If you’re thinking about joining a gym, opt for activities such as running, wild swimming, climbing or bootcamp sessions in your local park instead. Not only will it be a breath of fresh air (quite literally), but it can also save you money. It’s climate-friendly and you can meet new people from many backgrounds, ages and interests when joining a local sports club.
You could also trying joining community forest walks, learning how to identify trees and birds.
Start gardening
Not only is gardening said to steadily increase happiness the more you do it, but it actively benefits the earth by increasing soil health and biodiversity. Digging your hands into the ground, planting and harvesting, and exchanging gardening tips with others can also be beneficial for your personal wellbeing. If you don’t have your own space to grow, join a local allotment group as an affordable option that enhances the local community too. For courses on regenerative agriculture and foraging, check out the Permaculture Association.