The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) recently conducted a poll to see what percentage of Canadians have shifted to the great outdoors in an attempt to relieve pandemic-related stressors.

Out of the 2,000 poll responses, 82 per cent indicated they are spending time in nature as more rounds of restrictions and closures sweep across the country, while 37 per cent also stated they've been spending more time outdoors than they did before the pandemic began in March 2020.

Spending time in the great outdoors has many health benefits, especially during such uncertain times. Some of these benefits include reduced stressed, improves emotional states, and a healthier physical wellbeing.

Kayla Burak, Nature Conservancy Engagement Manager, mentions some ways to get involved with nature during the winter months,

"I would highly recommend snow tracking," said Burak. " We have some webinars up on our event website, on Nature Convervancy.ca, there was a winter tracking webinar that is linked there, but even if you just Google winter wildlife track you will come up with a wealth of resources,"

Burak also stated that there is a map of Canada where you can find the nearest conservation areas to visit located at naturedestinations.ca

Nature is a perfect outlit to safely connect with others while grabbing some sunlight, going for a walk, hike, run, or even bike ride while socially distancing.

If you're looking to spend more time outdoors, Burak recommends heading over to the Nature Conservancy of Canada or Nature Destinations' websites to find tips on tricks on how to better enjoy nature.

Ruby Zummack/ Golden West