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July is a strange month. It’s the middle of summer, but somehow we’ve already done all the “fun” stuff. The fireworks are over, the pool’s getting old, and somebody’s always saying, “I’m bored.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
What you might not know is that July is also Social Wellness Month, Anti-Boredom Month, and National Parks and Recreation Month. And those three ideas actually fit together better than you’d think.
Social wellness is about more than just being around people. It’s about feeling connected. Having someone to talk to. Being part of something. It’s what helps us feel like we belong. And after the past few years, a lot of us are still rebuilding that.
Boredom gets a bad rap, but it’s not the enemy. It’s your brain asking for something real. Something different. A break from the scrolling and noise.
That’s where Ohio’s parks come in.
You don’t need a big trip or an expensive ticket. Just pick a spot and go. Nature has a way of helping us slow down and feel human again.
If you're looking for ideas, here are a few Ohio spots to explore:
If you’ve got a long day ahead and no clue what to do, here are some low-pressure ideas that can help break the boredom and bring a little joy back to your summer:
Go on a silent walk. No phones, no music, just pay attention to the world around you.
Make a nature scavenger hunt. Create a list of things to find—like a feather, a bug, or something that smells good—and head to the nearest trail or park.
Try a backyard or balcony picnic. Sandwiches always taste better outside.
Visit a new trail or park near you. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources site can help you find one.
Draw sidewalk chalk art or leave kind messages on a walking path.
Volunteer for a local cleanup or help in a community garden. Giving back is a wonderful way to feel grounded.
Download the Agents of Discovery app and turn a nearby park into a real-life adventure game. Many Ohio locations participate.
The goal isn’t to stay busy. It’s to feel better. To reconnect. This is a reminder that you are allowed to slow down and engage in activities simply because they bring you joy. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or an educator, July can be a chance to reset—one park bench, nature trail, or simple conversation at a time.
So if summer has started to feel a little stale, maybe what you need isn’t more screen time. Maybe you just need to step outside.