February is right around the corner, and I have a question for you: How are you doing with your New Year’s Resolution? If you’ve abandoned your grand plans and the “New Year, New Me” mantra, don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Statistically, most people lose motivation for their resolutions by February. (There’s even an unofficial holiday, “Ditch New Year’s Resolution” Day, celebrated on January 17 each year.)

Whether you’re still holding strong or you’re looking for some motivation, we have some good news! Many of the most popular resolutions can be achieved by looking no further than your local land trust. We’ve listed the top three resolutions below, and some fun ways to get started:

Resolution #1:  Improve Mental Health 

Mental health — our emotional, psychological, and social well-being — sets the foundation for how we think, feel, and act. According to a survey by Forbes, this is the leading resolution for people in 2023! And while there is no one-

size fits all method to improving mental health, one great tool is to spend time outdoors.  Exposure to nature and forested landscapes, even just for a 20-minute walk, can reduce stress. (And yes, even in the winter.) Our new outdoor classroom at Simon Trail Preserve in Lamoine may be the perfect place to try forest-bathing, the practice of taking in the forest mindfully, with all your five senses activated.  

Resolution #2:  Improve Fitness

Fitness-related goals are always popular, but going to the gym can be intimidating, or hard to fit in to a busy schedule. FBC has preserves across eastern Hancock County, and there’s a good chance you pass by one of our trailheads on your way to work, to school, or running errands. By going for a short hike, you can hit your step-count goals, de-stress from your day (see #1), and start to experience the nature that’s right in your backyard. Day Ridges Preserve in Gouldsboro is a local favorite, and has some hills that can get your heart pumping!

Resolution #3: Improve Finances

Saving money can be challenging, especially when it feels like most extracurriculars have an associated cost. FBC preserves are free and open to the public, and can be a great place to recommend meeting with a friend, going on a date, or having some family fun!

Next time you’re looking for an activity, consider throwing on your microspikes and hitting the

Old Pond Railway Trail & Kilkenny Cove in Hancock, where you can view stunning sunsets. Keep an eye out for pop-up winter events offered by FBC and other local land-trusts, especially when the weather gets warmer. For example, FBC offers a free canoe rental program at Day Ridges Preserve, and an FBC Explorer Backpack program at our Tidal Falls Preserve.

Good luck, and enjoy!