Microadventures: small trips, big changes
"I don't have time." The most common excuse for not going out. But it's the lack of time that makes micro-adventures a brilliant solution. These are short, intense trips. The microadventures trend shows that even a small trip can have a big impact. It's not about the performance, it's about the experience. It's about allowing yourself to get out of the role of colleague, parent or manager for a few hours - and just be a human being in nature.
Try getting out during the week instead of sitting under fluorescent lights again:
- for a sleepover out of town (a hammock in the backyard counts too),
- to the pond with a book, without a cell phone,
- to a sunrise on a nearby hill,
- or to walk from work by a different route than usual.
Have you got a whirlwind of ideas going on in your head? Well done! If you are interested in microadventures, we recommend the book of the same name by Alastair Humpreys. You can find it in the Martinus Bookstore.
Water, sun, peace: summer rituals for body and soul
Water has the power to heal. Whether we swim in a lake, soak our feet in a stream, or just put a cold compress on the back of our necks on a hot day, our bodies will calm down. The sun, within reason, will replenish energy and joy.
Try creating little summer rituals:
- morning immersion in cold water (even at home in the shower),
- ten minutes in the sun with fresh juice in hand,
- a barefoot walk,
- or an evening sunset without rushing, grateful for the day.
- Did you know that just 20 minutes in the nature green reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels and improves mood? Studies show that the brain literally switches from "problem-solving" to "recovery" mode in nature.
Nature soothes, restores and brings us back to ourselves. It doesn't need much - just our attention.
Try glamping. The comfort of nature without having to deal with anything. For example, Glamping Čihadlo offers luxury camping with a view of the stars - the perfect introduction to the world of microadventures.
Or head to the #NaŽivili adventure accommodation, set in beautiful countryside surrounded by pastures and forests. Each of the four themed properties, inspired by the elements - Water, Fire, Earth and Air - will offer you the perfect connection with nature and awaken all your senses.
If you crave tranquillity with all the comforts, including an outdoor pool in the middle of the mountains, try the Wellness Hotel V Nebi.
Summer sports for everyone: Movement that makes sense
Paddleboarding, cycling, ferrata, a morning run or a quiet yoga session in the park - summer is the season for sports that are not just about performance, but about the joy of movement. You don't have to perform. You just need to move.
Beginner's tip: If you're not exactly the marathon type, try yoga. Courses like Yoga Bedřichov will teach you not only to stretch your body, but also to slow down your thoughts.
For those who want more: Extreme Experience or Kurzy přežití.cz will give you a day you won't soon forget.
Summer without water is not summer: Try CVOK - the travel agency or Boat Service Strakonice. Even a day trip can pull you out of your head and into the present moment.
In the Benefit Plus catalogue you will also find equipment rental companies like Endorphin Republic or Lipno Centrum - they will equip you for any sporting expedition.
Simplicity as a return to yourself
Nature reminds us of one important thing - that less is often more. Less notifications, less thinking, less pressure. Instead, more breathing, more laughter, more presence.
- Did you know that a simple activity like picking blueberries or cooking over a fire activates the centers in the brain associated with meditation? You don't have to know how to "turn your head off" - nature does it for you.
Try a trip without a destination - just let yourself be guided. And feel free to spice it up with a picnic with products from Aktin.cz - healthy snacks for the road will keep you cool even in the sun.
Summer expeditions may not be far, but they can be deep
We don't have to go far to find what we have lost - peace, breath, the joy of movement. Just look around you. The water, the sun and the silence are closer than we think. Every little micro-adventure is a great gift to our psyche and body.
Use your benefits not just as a reward, but as an investment in health, joy and well-being. If you didn't find the right one for you in the article, check out the full range in our catalogue.
The summer season is just beginning. Where will you go?