3 Ways to Add Adventure to Daily Life and Feel Healthier From Within

Lynn Martelli
Lynn Martelli

Ennui was a quirky character from the endearing 2024 movie, Inside Out 2. She exemplified a disinterest in most things, finding the world dull and insipid. Sadly, many adults have slipped into her shoes. Knowingly or otherwise.

Everyday life can feel mundane and relentless, even if your Instagram reels and YouTube shorts suggest otherwise. It is easy to label such feelings “trivial” or part of growing up. However, over time, they can breed health problems on the physical and mental fronts. Our bodies and minds don’t appreciate feeling blue and blah day after day.

When you’re stuck in a rut, existing health concerns can escalate. You may see anxiety issues flaring up. Some feel monotony can promote unhealthy eating and substance use.

Try these three approaches to add a dash of adventure to your daily life.

1. Pick Up Tips From Kids in Your Family or Neighborhood

When you’re out seeking adventure, look no further than a child. Chances are they will be inspecting leaves for worms or collecting odd-looking stones.

Admittedly, screens and social media addiction have affected this spirit in many kids and youngsters. But even so, a childlike sense of wonder prevails in many. It manifests when they are exposed to new situations, such as a walk in the woods or a trip to the dinosaur museum. Observing children is a practical technique to imbibe this spirit of adventure in oneself.

A Cambridge University Press article notes that some childlike traits can benefit adults. Think: asking questions and playing with ideas. Retaining a beginner’s mind, i.e., accepting not knowing. Being eager to find more can promote a culture of lifelong learning. It can keep us open to self-improvement in numerous areas, from health to career growth.

The bottom line is that drawing a bold line between childhood and adulthood may not be doing us any favors. Instead, why not seek adventure in everyday life, just like children do? It may require you to develop a mindset that ferrets out exciting things instead of constantly being handed a shiny new toy.

2. Commit to Trying Outdoor Experiences Around You

Many of us look forward to going on holidays to rejuvenate. They offer much-needed respite after weeks or months of dealing with workplace and personal stressors. A little stroll by the lake or a picnic on the hills can infuse novelty into everyday dreariness. However, one does not have to wait for vacations to try new or relaxing experiences.

Depending on your neighborhood, you may have access to the great outdoors. The University of York studied the benefits of nature-based activities for mental wellness. Their study found that activities such as horticulture and sports can alleviate mood and anxiety conditions. One can witness the results in as little as three months.

Do you live close to a lake or another water body where sports are permitted? Jet skiing can offer stress relief, with some people equating its benefits to meditation.

For example, states like South Carolina have several spots for water-adventure lovers. Lake Keowee is a popular option. You can explore Lake Keowee jet ski rentals to have this experience safely and affordably. Besides stress management, water skiing can also enhance your core strength and metabolism, which are key to feeling healthier.

In general, choosing rental equipment allows you to experience the thrill minus the commitment of a purchase. The idea of acquiring tons of equipment or facing logistical and storage challenges daunts those recently venturing out of their comfort zone. Moreover, with renting, you don’t have to worry about wasted costs if you only find the time to ski on vacation or at an annual family gathering.

A word of caution, though. Adventure works best when it is certifiably safe. Accordingly, it is better to seek adventure opportunities with experienced local providers. They will understand the risks and offer pro tips to put your mind at ease, whether you plan to try boating or go all-out with rock climbing.

For jet skiing and more water-based activities, look at businesses that deliver your rental equipment to the nearest boat ramp. According to Sea Jay Powersports, adhering to the safety guidelines and remaining confident on the water can help you enjoy the adventures to their fullest.

3. Experience the Thrill of Armchair Adventures

If all that talk of sports has got you feeling unnerved, here’s something reassuring: armchair adventures can also be supremely thrilling. They don’t need you to venture out of the house or even your chair but still offer limitless joys.

For example, consider reading. Recent data from the National Endowment for the Arts found that reading for leisure has declined among both little ones and adults. From 2017 to 2023, Americans aged 15 and older spent only around 15 minutes reading for their interest. In contrast, the television-watching time was closer to three hours on any given day.

These demotivating statistics reveal that many people are missing the potential adventure of reading. Genres like fantasy and mystery have seen some riveting work lately, with titles like the Between Earth and Sky series by Rebecca Roanhorse. Forbes has a list of all-time best fantasy novels if you prefer classics.

Feeling absorbed in a story can transport you to faraway lands, washing off your worries and bringing meaning to every day. Real Simple notes that reading has distinct health benefits, such as reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and improving sleep quality.

Another related armchair adventure you can embark on is journaling or writing. Unlike popular belief, it does not require top-notch writing skills or even a temperament: the point is to jot down your thoughts and make connections. Many people find that bucket-listing is therapeutic.

For example, you can identify destinations you would like to go to in your lifetime. Seeing that list formalized on paper will feel like an adventure in itself. Moreover, you will have thought starters ready the next time you get down to planning a vacation.

So, which adventurous path do you see yourself taking? Pursuing freshness is self-care; it keeps us invested in the world around us and avoids painting everything the same shades of monotony.

You may find little time left for self-care after handling a hundred tasks every day on personal and professional fronts. However, let’s view it as a health investment. Gradually, developing a spirit of adventure can help us become more fulfilled, awaiting new days with excitement.

Share This Article