Despite many closures and cancellations, the great outdoors is still open for business.
In the shadow of coronavirus, Canadians are still encouraged to head outside but while still practising vital social distancing advice from Public Health officials.
People are advised take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously and to be as strict as possible, avoiding close contact with others.
So, what better way to practise social distancing than heading outdoors to visit some of the many green spaces Guelph has to offer.
“We are so lucky to have the many parks and green spaces here in Guelph,” says outdoor enthusiast Jennifer Blender.
Blender runs a local parent and child hiking group where members get together and plan weekly hikes to a variety of trails in and around Guelph.
But, due to the pandemic, all hiking events have been cancelled.
“There’s so much to see and do this time of year,” She said.
“Buds on trees are starting to swell and there are so many birds migrating right now and nesting. Hearing the bird calls, it’s such an exciting time.”
Blender, despite the stay-at-home period, finds it a perfect opportunity to notice nature with her two children, and encourages everyone to take the time to be outside and catch the sights and sounds of all that spring has to offer.
“I have my own list of favourite trails. All of our hikes are nature based and I really encourage people to do this on their own. To engage while being disengaged,” Blender said.
“This experience might actually encourage people to take this time, time that they’ve always wanted. What a perfect opportunity.’
And in the next few weeks, everyone can since the Ontario Government ordered all publicly funded schools to be shut down for two weeks after March Break due to concerns about coronavirus.
Guelph offers many trails including the 4.1 kilometre Eramosa Trail, the Hanlon Creek Trail which is popular for cycling, hiking or dog walking and the Speed River Trail which is ideal for kids and beginner hikers.
The Arboretum has cancelled all programming, but grounds and trails remain open and are free to the public. The Ignatius Centre trails are open by donation and trails at the Everdale Farm in Hillsburgh are also open Monday to Saturday.
Social distancing involves taking steps to increase the physical space between people to prevent the virus from spreading. Public health officials say this is key to reducing the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, Theresa Tam, recommends trying to stay two metres apart from others.
Other tips include avoiding crowds and going to public places during off-peak hours. Tam also urges people to stay home if they are sick.
Running or walking are solo and touch-free activities while at-home workouts are not always compatible.
Plus, they keep you inside which may have downfalls to physical and mental health.
A little time outside can improve your mood for those who are beginning to feel “stir crazy’.
“Running is a major stress reliever, it keeps me sane,” says avid runner, James Reagan from Guelph who enjoys the trails at Preservation Park. “Just getting outside feels amazing even if I need to remember social distancing.”
And while everyone is encouraged to stay at home, what a great opportunity to do just that and enjoy nature from your home or backyard.
“You can start seeding now for your summer garden right inside your home. And it will bring some greenery indoors,” Blender says.
Blender also says you can connect with ‘Sit Spot’, a practice which connects you to the seasons, rhythms and inspiration of nature right in your own backyard.
“It’s a process where you sit outside, in one spot for a few minutes every day. You really get to know your spot. We have the same squirrel visit at the same time every day,” she said.
“Now is the time to notice all of the things you didn’t have time to notice like late nights too. When there is a clear night sky, what a perfect time for star gazing.”
For a list of Guelph Trails, visit https://guelph.ca/living/recreation/parks/trails/
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