Stress isn’t just a negative feeling—it also has a physical effect on our health.
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Scientific studies demonstrate that stress can contribute to coronary health problems, inflammation, poor circulation, and more. Repeated exposure to stress is even more likely to ramp up negative side effects, which compound over time.
With election day approaching, Americans nationwide are living amid high tension.
That type of stress is bad for the mind and body, dragging down our physical and mental wellbeing.
In other words… it’s the perfect time for a weekend getaway.
Want to escape election stress? The best options out there are easy weekend getaways that take you into nature. Here’s why.
Nature is healing
As mentioned above, research has linked chronic stress to a handful of serious physical maladies.
But there’s a silver lining: getting out into nature has also been empirically linked to stress relief. And nature—unlike many other types of vacations—is cheap and accessible for most Americans.
Whether you’re feeling a little bogged down by personal troubles, uninspired, antisocial, or angsty, a quick jaunt through nature can relieve symptoms quickly.
On top of improving our mood, scientific studies have also found that getting out further into nature—such as visiting a nature reserve versus visiting an urban park—is even more beneficial for alleviating stress.
So, stress might be inevitable as the election approaches, but even doing something as simple as taking a stroll through a local park can lift that shroud of anxiety. But let’s focus on more immersive weekend getaways that can help you escape election stress.
If you’re looking to turn a short stroll into a nature-focused weekend getaway, here’s how to do that based on climate.
Weekend getaways to escape election stress—ideas for cooler climates
- Get out of the city at a remote cabin. Renting a remote cabin is one of the best ways to escape the stress in a colder climate. You can stay indoors and cuddle up or venture into the unknown at your leisure. Whether looking for a cabin in the Berkshires or an A-Frame outside Seattle, there’s a home base waiting for you. Bonus points if you can’t see or hear anyone else.
- Head to the beach. Beaches are usually empty during cold months. So if you’ve got a hankering to be alone and surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, a beach excursion might be perfect for you. Just make sure to bundle up.
- Get out on the water. Sure, you might not be taking a dip in colder climates, but water is known for its soothing and relaxing qualities. Whether kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, you’ll benefit from the gentle sounds and sights of coasting along the surface.
- Let the bonfire lull you to a peaceful state. Whether or not you can get away for the weekend, you might be able to put together a great bonfire. Bonfires also open up the chance to invite over friends, along with cooking over the open flames. I’m talking about desserts like s’mores along with savory favorites like bratwurst.
Weekend getaways to escape election stress—ideas for warmer climates
- Camp it out. Get away from the noise and hustle at your favorite campsite. Alternatively, if you really want to escape the city and stress, get out of dodge by exploring a brand-new campground. Similar to beaches in colder climates, many campsites empty out during autumn with kids back in school.
- Get out on the water. In a warmer climate, you can get out on the water however you’d like. Those with boats are particularly able to escape the noise by heading straight to the center of a peaceful lake or past the surf into the ocean. Once again, don’t forget about the soothing power of water.
- Join a sports team/league. Ever wanted to pick up a strange new venture like frisbee golf or paddleball? Now is the perfect time. Playing sports in natural settings gives you the benefit of nature’s healing powers, along with the ever-beneficial rush of endorphins from exercise.
- Create a scavenger hunt with your family. Depending on what sort of parks and public spaces you’re working with, creating a scavenger hunt can be a welcome distraction. Think of it like an Easter Egg hunt—just themed differently.
