According to the EPA, the average American spends 87% of their life indoors. Here’s another perspective: If you spent 1 hour a day outside, every day of the week, that would only add up to 4% of that week! That’s 96% of your time indoors. Too much time spent inside exposes us to poorer air quality, inactivity, and sun-deficit. On the contrary, spending time outdoors has been scientifically proven to improve sleep quality, eye sight, psychological health, vitamin D absorption, and inspires exercise. We are always brainstorming ways to get the community outside and turn these statistics around.
Camp Waa Kee Sha
On July 14th we have our first Camp Waa Kee Sha. From walls to woods, kids and their parents can spend a night under the stars at our Waa Kee Sha Park. There will be fort building activities, and families will have the option to sleep in the fort they construct or erect a tent. Early next month we will be hosting a hiking and navigation class as well as cooking and campfire building. Camping and hiking are great ways to unplug from our devices and get engaged in the moment. It’s important for all of us to take time out to explore our naturalness away from technology and rigid routines.
Neighborhood Nights
An essential component to human happiness is being a part of your community. That’s why we started Neighborhood Nights. On July 25-27, we will be at three different parks cooking out, free of charge, welcoming the neighborhood to join. It’s a fantastic way to meet your neighbors and establish your sense of community. Check our website to see the park closest to you hosting this event. Don’t miss out on making your life and neighborhood a happier place.
Monday Miles
We’re still at it, and it’s never too late to step in. Every Monday the community meets at Prairie Point Park to walk a one, two, or three-mile loop. Walkers, runners, dog walkers, and wheelchair athletes all contribute miles towards our goal. In 2016 we trotted a collective 2405.5 miles in 11 weeks. Again, we hope to raise that bar together this year. It doesn’t matter if your running, walking, training, or just getting outside, you’re guaranteed to meet some amazing members of the community and feel better after every mile.
Stories in the Park
Storytelling has been an ancient tradition since wanderers and gatherers roamed our land. Stories in the Park is a free event for children and parents to get out in the parks and acting creatively. A morning filled with stories, finger plays, and sing songs – it’s a marvelous way to get outside and share fun moments with your kids. We encourage everyone to bring a blanket and picnic lunch. Check the website for the weekly park location. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Life is too exciting to spend all its days trapped inside or hypnotized by a smartphone. However you like to get outside and engage, go for it! Our lives are better spent with time geared towards health and community. More than ever, with all the amazing technological advancements, we should seek balance. It’s never too late to step outside for a while and enjoy the fresh air with friends, family, and your community.
