In times like these we’re all looking for ways to find a little peace, and the answer might be as close as your backyard or nearby nature trail. There are plenty of ways to safely follow social distancing recommendations while still getting some fresh air. Here are some benefits of stepping outside and enjoying relaxing moments, and some gear to help you get there.

One thing that can help get your mind back into gear is exposing it to restorative environments, which research has found, generally means the great outdoors. One study found that people’s mental energy bounced back even when they just looked at pictures of nature.

Another study found that walks in the forest were associated with decreased levels of anxiety and bad moods, and another found that outdoor walks could be “useful clinically as a supplement to existing treatments” for major depressive disorder.

Spending time outside also lowers blood pressure.
That effect has been demonstrated by a number of studies. One intensive study of 280 participants in Japan found that along with decreasing stress hormone concentrations by more than 15%, a walk in the forest lowered participants’ average pulse by almost 4% and blood pressure by just over 2%.

As you prepare to explore the outdoors in solitude check out this gear to make the most of your experience.

Osprey Archeon 25
MSRP $190
A great fitting pack is key to enjoying the outdoors. We love the new Osprey Archeon 25, a minimalist, versatile and sustainable pack featuring quality craftsmanship and technical construction. It’s perfect for an escape into nature yet versatile enough for everyday when things start to return to normal. Archeon is available in men’s and women’s specific fit, features durable GRS certified recycled materials, PFC Free DWR and is equipped with an Airscape Backpanel with mesh-covered bumped foam to allow maximum ventilation.

IceMule Classic Mini
MSRP $49.95
The ICEMULE Classic Mini has a 9-liter capacity and is the ideal personal size of the Classic. Still made from the same durable materials as the rest of the Classic cooler bag family, the Mini is perfect for keeping your lunch fresh or your drinks chilled all day long, no matter where you have to go.

Vasque Clarion ’88 GTX 
MSRP $159.99
The Clarion ’88 GORE-TEX is a waterproof boot with retro style and modern comfort. Take it hiking, camping, or on adventures around town. You just won’t want to take it off.

Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Front Range Print Crew Sock 
MSRP $22.95
Whether you’re heading to the Front Range or to your favorite trailhead, the PhD Outdoor Light Front Range Print Crew will help you get out there. The design on these crew socks is full of tech additions, including Indestructawool technology to make these some of our most durable socks yet, activity-specific mesh zones, a Virtually Seamless toe, and the 4 Degree elite fit system.
These are one of our toughest hiking socks, but they still have comfort and color covered.prAna Hybridizer Jogger
MSRP- $89
The men’s Hybridizer Jogger from prAna brings lightness to the day, making getting outside for some fresh air or backyard activities with the kids even easier.  The Hybridizer Jogger is a lightweight, breathable performance pant that wicks moisture and dries quickly, making it a versatile indoor-to-outdoor pant. Additional features include a side seam secure zippered pocket, interior drawcord, and mesh lined front and rear pockets.

Glerups Shoe (w/ black rubber sole)
MSRP $135
When you are comfortable and cozy inside, but need to get outside to take some deep breaths in the springtime sunshine the glerups shoe with black rubber sole will keep the hygge vibes with you.Snow Peak Kanpai Bottle 500ml
MSRP $79.95
Snow Peak’s popular stainless steel Kanpai bottle is a double-walled, vacuum-sealed container designed to keep drinks hot or cold for more than six hours.Light My Fire LunchKit BIO
MSRP $21.99
Get a change of scenery and take your lunch break outside with the LunchKit BIO from Sweden’s Light My Fire.  Whether it is full of leftovers from last night’s dinner or packed fresh with nutritious and delicious food, the LunchKit BIO is a great companion.  All components are made in Sweden from Bioplastics and are safe for the dishwasher and microwave.