For those living in or near Clemmons, NC, this post will highlight some local several care activities for when you are stressed or overwhelmed. If you are struggling with anxiety yourself or a loved one who has OCD, it can take a toll on your mind, body and spirit. It is important to recognize when you are in need of self-care and use what you have available to you locally.
Other than therapy, medication, and a caring support system, one way to cope with anxiety or OCD is to engage in values aligned activities. For those who value nature, health, and living locally, the places listed below can give you ideas of values-aligned activities to help you live a meaningful life while you manage your anxiety and OCD.
Don’t let anxiety or OCD stop you from living your life.
Each of these local activities encourages some level of physical activity and opportunities to awaken your senses and awareness of the present moment. Anxiety and OCD often locks us into the past or the future, taking us away from what is actually present. When your brain and body are in an anxious state, you are likely to experience increased muscle tension, appetite changes, fatigue, and restlessness. In this state your thoughts can be overwhelming and hard to manage. Even though you might not feel like it, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to get outside, change your scenery, and engage your senses.
Clemmons and nearby Winston-Salem, NC have some incredible options for getting outside and enjoying nature. Here are my top five choices for when you are looking for a local activity to meet your self-care needs. All these options are kid-friendly as well.
5 Local Spots For Self-Care When You Need to Get Outside
1- Tanglewood Park located in Clemmons, NC- This park has a little bit of everything; a dog park, horseback riding and horse trails, a pool, tennis courts, walking and mountain biking trails. There are all sorts of special events for holidays and activities offered seasonally. There are stunning gardens and playgrounds. To access some of the amenities you have to pay to enter the park, but there is also a public parking area near the dog park where you can access trails and stroll all around without having to pay an entrance fee. I love seeing what is blooming and listening to the birds chirping high up in the trees. 
2- The Graylyn Estate or Reynolda Gardens– These are technically two different places but they are situated so close to each other that I put them together. The gardens and estate have plenty of walking trails and paths, benches to sit on and take in the beauty, shade for when you prefer to stay out of the sun. The manicured gardens and landscaping are a sight to behold.
3- Bobby Boy Bakeshop– Not technically an outdoor nature spot, but you can sit outside amongst nature while you eat the best pastry of your life. Bobby Boy has some of the most delicious pastries, breads, and coffee available. The smell of the fresh baked bread and roasted coffee is sure to awaken your senses. Before or after you eat, you can enjoy a stroll along the sidewalks in the connecting neighborhoods or walk along the Stuart and Emma Thomas Memorial trail owned by Crossnore Community for Children. An important note, caffeinated beverages can sometimes amplify anxiety symptoms. If you need to skip the caffeine, they have some great alternatives.
4- Cugino Forno Pizza– I prefer the location in downtown Winston Salem. It is situated in an industrial complex that has a shared outdoor space with several other restaurants. This is a great place for kids, dogs, and anyone who enjoys a laid back outdoor restaurant atmosphere with delicious food. Sometimes self-care looks like lowering the demand of making dinner at home and going somewhere where the kids can be fed and entertained. Even better, call a friend who cares and have them meet you there.
5- Pilot Mountain State Park– This one is about a 45 minute drive from Clemmons and Winston Salem, but well worth it for the views and experience. The mountain is home to trails, rivers and waterfalls of varying difficulty levels. There are the usual options for camping, picnicking, and fishing. There are places for climbing and leisurely walking. Venturing into a state park can offer you the experience of being away from civilization and the hustle and bustle. According to a Harvard study, 20 minutes spent in nature has incredible health benefits.
Amidst our busy lives and the ever present hum of anxiety, it is important to step away from our routines and tasks to engage our minds, bodies, and spirits in refreshing and enlivening activities. Don’t wait to enjoy life until you’ve gotten rid of your anxiety and OCD. For most people, these things never go away completely. However, you can live a rich and meaningful life, engaging in values-aligned activities despite having anxiety and OCD.
Does self care seem unobtainable for you because of your anxiety?
If you feel stuck in your thoughts and worries and can’t imagine how you could possibly enjoy life while you feel this way, reach out today to learn more about our therapy for anxiety and OCD and how Evercare Counseling can help you.
Evercare Counseling offers a range of mental health services to help provide you with more support. These services include anxiety therapy, ERP therapy, OCD treatment, therapy for women, and Christian counseling. Online therapy is provided throughout Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida. We also see clients in person at our office in Clemmons, North Carolina. For more about us check out our FAQs and blog!