Outdoor well-being: Why it is so important for Germans?

The well-known German word wanderlust reflects a society that deeply values spending time in nature and embracing the outdoors well-being.

Wandern: hike or long walk Lust: desire or pleasure

Recently I rediscovered this word during my internship in BWS, which inspire me to explore why and how the habit of spending time outdoors is maintained throughout the year in Germany. No matter the season, it is common to see people jogging, walking, or simply enjoying nature. As we enter the colder months, we hope this article will inspire you and offer some practical ideas to stay active, fit, and connected with nature and your well-being — no matter the weather.

People walking in a park during fall season

Have you noticed that cities in Germany take exceptional care of their green spaces?

Almost every city park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking to relax on a bench or at a table, play sports like table tennis, or find an open area for a game of Frisbee, there is always something for everyone. You can jog along tree-lined paths or simply relax on grassy patches, soaking up the sun or having a picnic during the summer months.

Children playing outdoor table tennis in a park

One thing you will always find in these parks is a well-equipped children’s playground. These spaces are designed with a variety of fun and challenging equipment, helping little ones develop their motor skills, coordination, and social abilities. It is clear that German cities prioritize not only green spaces for relaxation but also create environments that foster physical and social development for all ages.

Children playground during winter season.

From pilgrimage to romanticism: how German artists inspired a love for nature and outdoor exploration?

Outdoor activities such as hiking come from a long tradition of religious pilgrims of the Middle Ages but it was not until late 18^th and early 19^th centuries that German romanticist authors and painters advocate the appreciation of nature. One of the most important representation of this time is Caspar David Friedrich who had painted large landscapes inspiring the society to explore their outdoor surroundings.

Self-portrait, Wanderer above the sea of fog, Caspar David Friedrich

Embracing the outdoors well-being: How Germans stay active in nature year-round

A survey by DW[1] revealed that 68% of the German population spends their leisure time outdoors, with activities like visiting forests, exercising, or simply relaxing in nature deeply embedded in the culture. This growing appreciation for outdoor spaces also places increasing pressure on city officials to continuously improve the infrastructure of these natural areas.

Therefore, in a country where infrastructure, trails, equipment and a supportive society there is no excuse for not joining the wave. Now that we are entering the cold season of the year we give you some ideas of how to keep active.

_{[1] https://www.dw.com/en/hiking-in-germany-wandering-as-a-national-pastime/a-43786855}

Woman preparing for an outdoor run.

Spending time outdoors has been shown to significantly improve mental well-being, boost mood, enhance creativity, and help clear our minds. Whether you’re going for a walk or run, preparing properly can help maximize these benefits.

Here’s how to get ready for your outdoor adventure:

Stretching before going outdoors: It’s essential to warm up before heading out, especially in cooler weather, to prevent injuries. Stretching not only prepares your muscles for activity but also helps maintain physical and mental flexibility. Regular stretching not only when going out for a runn or hike, stretching can improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and increase overall flexibility, contributing to better movement and injury prevention.
Layer Up! Choose the right clothes for the weather: Proper clothing helps regulate your body temperature, which is crucial for preventing injuries and staying comfortable during your outdoor activity. Depending on the weather, wear layers to keep sweat off your skin, an insulating layer for warmth, and a waterproof outer layer if necessary. Don’t forget accessories like warm socks, gloves, and something to cover your head and ears to protect against the cold.
Find someone to join the adventure: Having a friend or companion join you for a walk or run can significantly increase motivation and help keep you accountable. When you have a workout buddy, you’re more likely to stay consistent. Additionally, a friend provides emotional support, making the experience more enjoyable and helping you stay positive, even when you’re not feeling up to it.

Outdoor wellbeing: Morning run at the park

Indoor well-being: And if you really don’t want to leave home here some different ideas to still keep yourself active.

Exercise at Home:
Exercising from the comfort of your own home has become an increasingly popular option, especially since the pandemic. With countless online resources, apps, and virtual classes available, it’s easier than ever to stay fit indoors. However, the challenge is maintaining consistency. To make home workouts a regular part of your routine, start small. Commit to a simple, short exercise sequence, or even just one exercise each day. For example, you could begin with 10 push-ups daily and gradually add more exercises as the habit builds. The key is to keep it manageable and focus on creating a sustainable routine.

Woman doing pushups in livingroom.

Dance by Yourself:
It may sound a bit crazy, but turning on your favorite song and dancing around is a fantastic way to get moving. Not only is dancing a fun way to engage your body, but it also boosts serotonin. Whether you’re following a routine or just letting loose to the rhythm, dancing will improve your mood, enhance coordination, and get your body moving.