Nature for Beginners: An Expert Offers Tips on Feeling Comfortable Outdoors

Rue Mapp has always loved the outdoors. The founder of the national organization, Outdoor Afro, Rue is a hunter, adventurer and motivational speaker, and she recently added author to her many titles. Her first book Nature Swagger continues the mission of Outdoor Afro and celebrates the Black outdoor experience around the world through dazzling photos, engaging stories and essays.

Though she grew up in Oakland, California, Mapp spent her weekends and summers on a family ranch a few hours outside of the city. During her childhood, she experienced the life-changing power of connecting with nature, and in 2009 Mapp created Outdoor Afro, a blog that would transform into a national movement.

Today, Outdoor Afro is a national network that encourages and provides opportunities for Black people to experience the outdoors, and the non-profit organization has grown to a network of over 60,000 people in 60 cities. Read on to get Rue's advice for beginner adventurers who are looking to get outdoors and spend more time in nature.

For those heading outside for the first time, it’s always important to understand the risks involved. To mitigate risk, start by doing your research. Know where you’re going and what climate conditions to expect. You should also do some research about the right gear and equipment to travel comfortably with, your options for hydration and what food to take with you. It also never hurts to bring along a companion in case you need help or support.

Fishing is a great beginner outdoor activity, and with a fishing license, you can fish off local piers, lakes or streams. You can start by visiting a local bait and tackle shop close to where you would like to fish. Professionals at these shops are a treasure trove of information about fishing in your area, and they can assist with startup gear that doesn’t cost a lot of money.

Sometimes when we try something new, there’s a fear that people will not understand or support what brings us joy. Sometimes the fear is because we’re not quite sure about our abilities or whether or not we will be successful, but stay true to who you are and focus on what brings you joy.

If you’re just starting out, visit areas you would like to explore based on your interests. If you already like to swim, run or ride a bike, you might want to consider an outdoor activity that connects to these interests. If you enjoy walking, maybe try hiking in a new venue that’s more challenging. If you’re a gardener, consider joining a community garden space or becoming part of a larger community in your local area. In whatever nature category you like, identify an activity within it and challenge yourself to try new skills.

Chances are that you’ll find something in nature that will align with what makes you feel true to who you are and what you enjoy, but expect a learning curve. You may not start off with a clear idea about what calls you and you might not be successful at first, but if you start doing what you enjoy right now, you have a better chance of being successful at it eventually.

Beginners should consider starting close to home. Being close to home means you have a higher likelihood of knowing your surroundings and feeling more comfortable. Plus, transportation barriers may be lower. You may be able to access local parks by foot, bike or public transportation. Also, getting to know your community through frequent visits to local parks and outdoor recreational areas helps to develop a relationship that cultivates care and stewardship for the environment.

It’s very important to stay hydrated and have the proper fuel for any outdoor adventure. If uncertain, bring two or even three times more water containers than you think you’ll need. It’s a great idea to bring along a nutrition bar or proteins like cheese, peanut butter or a hard-boiled egg. Sun protection also goes hand-in-hand with hydration. A cap, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can shield your face and neck comfortably from the sun. Apply a minimum of SPF 30 on any exposed skin and remember to bring along bug repellent.

Today, there is an abundance of groups, clubs, gatherings and social networking that didn’t exist even a decade ago. Whether you want to get out with a new mom's group or with church members, there are ways to connect with people that share common interests with you. Ultimately, heading outdoors with a group can help you feel more at ease.

There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Be sure you check hourly weather reports for where you want to be and factor in possible changes in the weather, such as wind, temperature fluctuations and rain. Another important factor is shoes. You need good shoes that cover your entire foot — so no flip-flops! Athletic shoes can be just fine, as long as they have enough tread for slippery or gravel slopes. Rue also suggests wearing layers as you may start off in a cool climate early in the day, but with movement and the rising sun, you may warm up a lot.