In the light of the isolation, taking classes online and working from home during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we may occasionally need to take a break from our computer screens. A great way to relieve the stress and improve mental and physical health during this time is to go outside in safe and appropriate ways. That can mean walking in a neighborhood or hiking or biking in areas that open to the public.

In an effort to encourage the UD community to go outside and appreciate the beauty of nature and learn about the ecology, UD Sustainability has introduced the Blue Hen Outdoor Challenge to encourage people to go outdoors for at least 15 minutes each day in the month of May. To participate in the Blue Hen outdoor challenge, sign up at https://tinyurl.com/BlueHen-Outdoor-Challenge by May 10 and sign the pledge after the completion at the end of May.

UD Sustainability would love to see your fun ideas for getting outside, so please share what you are doing with UD Sustainability on social media. Tag us on Instagram @udelsustainability, Twitter @UDelsustainable and use the hashtag #BlueHenOutdoorChallenge in your post.

Please follow all government regulations regarding whether parks are open and for what activities. Check out https://destateparks.com/Covid19 for Delaware State Parks COVID-19 updates. Residents outside of Delaware residents should check their respective state parks website for updates.