Get Picnicking

Few words bring a more whimsical image to mind than picnic. Combining cozy checkered blankets, fresh air, and good conversation, the picnic is a summer tradition that has stuck around for a reason. With the weather beginning to warm up, there’s no better time to get out and to get one going.

Power to the Potluck

Many hands make light work. This is especially true when it comes to hosting a communal picnic—lighten up the workload and encourage everyone to bring a dish for sharing. Try these
stove-free recipes to beat the summer heat and keep lunch crisp and fresh. Bonus points if food is
offered in a fun, waste-free container, like a tiffin or a bento box.

Don’t be afraid of heading out to eat solo— try a compact Mason Jar Salad, perfect for a no-fuss, no-cleaning required lunch outside.

Take a breather

June’s 12 Months of Wellness has put the focus on tuning into nature—picnics are an excellent way to enjoy yourself while also enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you set up shop by the beach, at your local park, or even in your own backyard, enjoy the novelty of eating outside by slowing down and appreciating what is going on around you. Listen to the birds, the sound of people around you, or the sound of nothing at all. Rather than chowing down in a rush (like we often have to during our weekly grind), try and take the time to savour both your food and your surroundings.

Work up a sweat, gym-free

The benefits of picnicking need not all be stationary—there are plenty of workout techniques
that can be incorporated into your time outside to combine both relaxation and invigoration. Picnic sports can be done with basic backyard equipment and are fun to try either solo or with a group. Don’t forget to warm up beforehand!

Keep the sunscreen handy

Although Canadian summers don’t always pull through in terms of non-stop sunshine, it’s important to pack the SPF, whatever the weather. Recent research suggests that it is never too late to start wearing sunscreen, and that protecting ourselves from sun damage year-round can lead to younger, healthier looking skin at any age. Make sure that your skin is well-protected before heading out to munch, regardless of whether not you think you’ll be directly in the sun.

Have a go-to picnic dish that you'd like to share with us? Let us know via Twitter, Facebook, and or blog post comments below.