1 of 4 2 of 4 3 of 4 4 of 4
If there was ever a time to get outside and commune with nature, this is it. The stress factor has gone through the ceiling with the coronavirus pandemic. I have told my kids for years that going outdoors makes me feel better, and in case they don't believe me, I looked it up. It's true. It improves your mood, reduces feelings of stress or anger, and boosts your endorphins-- which makes you happier.
This really works. Like most of us, I was feeling way too high strung from breaking coronavirus news so my son and sister and I went on a hike at Shasta Dam in Redding. We took the Chamise Peak Trail, which is well maintained and climbs up gradually, but keep in mind it's 2.4 miles to the peak. Normally it wouldn't be too bad, but I hadn't eaten, forgot my water, and it was actually hot. I had to stop several times because of that. It was worth it though. Once you get to the top there's a picnic table and an incredible view of the Upper Sacramento River to the left and you can see part of Shasta Dam to the left.
I think we were out there for about three hours, but Mother Nature did her thing, and I literally didn't think about work, or viruses, or anything negative for awhile.
Keep in mind that trails and outdoor recreation areas still open, even though campgrounds around the state are closed.