Late 19th century naturalist and environmental activist John Muir famously wrote “The mountains are calling and I must go." His advocacy, through his many writings about his time spent in the natural lands of the United States, helped to preserve much of the national parks enjoyed by so many today. And thank goodness.
According to the EPA, the average person in the US only spends about 7% of their time outdoors, and the impact is clear. Humans need nature. The research and evidence around forest bathing, the need for natural morning light, and grounding (walking barefoot on natural land like grass or sand) is solid.
As the months cool, it can be tempting to spend even more time indoors. Finding a little time each day outside can gradually acclimate the body to the shifts in temperature and air pressure, making the transition seem less oppressive. And as the air cools, the mosquitoes seem to chill out a bit, and time in the woods or at the beach feels a little bit more enjoyable. As fall turns the page, it’s time to trade in that beach towel and sunscreen for some blankets and pillows, and still hit the beach for some much needed space, wind, movement, and natural light.
This is where easy and simple alfresco dining becomes part of an irresistible fall routine. Alfresco simply means outdoors or in the open air. It was adopted as a style from an Italian phrase meaning "in the fresh air".
There’s plenty of opportunity to locally explore a beach or family-friendly forest preserve. If looking for a combination of woods and sand, look no further than the magical dunes of Indiana and western Michigan lakeshore. A weekend day trip hits all the marks. The arc of this magical experience starts with a hike along a sandy ground floor, over gentle hills, under a canopy of leaves shifting their hues.
Over a dune or two, the lake appears, and the sound of the waves welcome you in. Many gather there for a light nibble, and to mark the end of a day worth living. A community of people coming together to watch the sun, and all her glory, take her evening bow. All sharing in this precious, moment, with faith, proven over and over again, that tomorrow, like always, she will rise. "The beach is calling, and I must go."
Most people have a lot on their plate, and spend little time just being. Taking a break from the usual surroundings, often filled with visual reminders of endless to do’s, can be a powerful intervention for settling the mind, and feeding the soul. Beaches offer a visual vastness unlike any other, calming the senses and relaxing the nervous system.
This month, we're sharing a "recipe" for an experience: a thoughtfully curated fall picnic that's as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy. Keeping a small bin in the back of the car with a couple of essentials, that will be there standing by when the mood strikes, makes this always within reach; blankets (one for sitting, one for wrapping or cuddling), two yummy pillows, a string of battery powered pixie lights, a cutting board for a stable surface for drinks, hand wipes, reusable or disposable cutlery, and a flashlight (in case it gets dark, it may be hard to leave).
There’s a reason why canning jar soups and salads are so popular. The container is versatile, travels well without spilling, and comes in various sizes to satisfy the appetite of papa, mama and baby bear. Since September tends to lean towards warm days and cool evenings, the menu can accommodate a warm afternoon with individual salads, layered with grains, beans, and colorful fall veggies, perfectly in season and budget friendly, that are individually preferred.
For a cooler evening, try some warm creamy squash soup and pita, or individual sandwiches on fresh baguette with some warm sipping broth in a thermos. For dessert, any treat that travels well. Brownies, parfaits, or a simple gooey pastry, hot cacao, or the fall favorite, spicy hot apple cider. And when all the planning falls apart, some takeout on the way still hits the point.
When the beach or forest is calling, listen. And go.
As fall turns the page, it’s time to trade in that beach towel