One Hour Outside November 2016 | Week 1 Update

I have been completely overwhelmed with the interest that my One Hour Outside campaign has had over the last couple of weeks. It seems you think spending at least an hour outside every day in November is a good idea, and loads of you have been taking part, which is exactly what I hoped for. Thanks guys! 

Country lane near Lincoln, Lincolnshire. 

This challenge is all about turning good intentions into actions. To stop me (and you) just talking about how getting outside is good for us, and actually getting outside and spending time in the fresh air. To put all the reasons why we should be heading out of the front door into practice, every single day.

For me it’s been a mixed week. I guess I always knew it would be. Some days it’s super easy to get an hour or more outside, but other days it’s a case of splitting it up into 15 minute chunks and counting all the time I’m stuck by the railway crossing that always seems to go down when I’m late to a meeting.

Level crossing, Lincoln.

Here are some of my highlights from the week…

Autumn has really hit here in the UK now, and because the weather has been still and dry for a little while, the leaves have turned the most awesome colour and are just gently piling up on the ground. Spending an hour in colour like this in the middle of the working day was just wonderful.

Autumn leaves and my quilted Dr Martens, Lincoln.

I’ve been meaning to cycle to work more but have had all the excuses this summer, so naturally I picked the day of the first heavy ground frost here in Lincolnshire to get out on my bike. Thicker socks needed! It’s a lovely cycle ride, around five miles and mostly on dedicated cycle paths away from the roads. I’m determined to do more of this, it’s good for me and is a really easy way to get my hour outside without trying.

Commuting by bicycle, Lincoln.

I love seeing sunrise in Autumn, when the mist rises from the frozen ground. Need I say more?

From the cycle path to work, Lincoln. 

The orange leaves of Autumn turn Lincoln into an even prettier city than normal. This is Steep Hill, the main route up to the Cathedral. I know that now we’ve had rain this hill will be more slippery than ever, but it was nice while it lasted!

Steep Hill, Lincoln. 

It’s possible to get some outdoors time whatever you are doing… I was out in the car picking up a parcel from a local depot, and couldn’t resist parking up and taking a few snaps. Another few minutes in the bag and an opportunity to take in the beauty of one of Lincolnshire’s little single track lanes.

Country lane near Lincoln, Lincolnshire.

You’ve also been sharing your outdoors time stories over on twitter and instagram using the hashtag #OneHourOutside which has been absolutely brilliant – it’s been fab seeing your posts and getting to know you in that way. Has anyone been using the printable record sheet with your family? I’d love to see a snap of it so far if you are!

And if you’re not already following me over on instagram, I’d love to make friends over there – I’m certain there will be plenty more outdoors photos posted there this month.

If you need some inspiration, check out my 50 Things To Do Outside in November post. Want to know why you should take part in the challenge? Here are some Benefits of Getting Outside. Basically, stop just thinking about it, or making excuses, and just join in with the challenge. Your time outside is time well spent. Go enjoy!