Head outdoors to beat the winter blahs

Winter weather got you down? Beat the blahs by getting outside.

There's plenty of research showing the benefits of getting outdoors in nature. It's good for our physical health - a proven antidote to couch-potato syndrome.

And it's good for our psychological health. An emerging branch of psychology known as ecotherapy is based on the principle that contact with nature is good for our mental health and spiritual well-being. In other words, nature nurtures.

While the pluses of outdoor activities in nature are many, sometimes we just need to be nudged - especially when we've been in hibernation for months. Consider yourself nudged. There are lots of reasons to get up and outside. Here's a sampling from the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

Maple sugaring

The highlight of late winter activities is Maple Sugaring at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles. From 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, March 14-15, the annual Maple Sugaring Days take place at Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St.

All ages are welcome to stop in and see how maple tapping works. You can try your hand at drilling and tapping a tree, learn how to simmer down sap to syrup, see the tools used in maple sugaring, and sample the sweet elixir in bottled form. Naturalists will lead hikes in the woods throughout the afternoon, identifying maples and other native trees. The event is free and open to the public.

Kids' programs

If your little ones have been cooped up all winter, bring them out to the nature center for one of our kids' programs. On Thursday, March 19, the "Nature Tykes" for 3-year-olds and "Little Naturalists" for 4-year-olds will take place at Creek Bend Nature Center. The Nature Tykes program is held from 9:30-10:15 a.m., and Little Naturalists from 1-2 p.m.

These programs combine stories, games, and crafts with nature-based themes. The fee for these programs is $5 per child, and advance registration is required. Call (630) 444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com.

There's also a lively Story Time from 10:30 - 11 a.m. Friday, March 27, at the nature center. Staff from the Saint Charles Public Library bring books, finger plays, songs, and more for this fun program for children, infants through age 5. All are welcome to enjoy the interactive exhibits in the nature center following the program.

The life of Black Hawk

Activities are not just for little kids, though. Adults will find lots of reasons to visit the forest preserves as well. On Tuesday, March 17, a presentation on the life - and lessons - of Native American leader Black Hawk will be held at Creek Bend Nature Center from 7-8:30 p.m.

Dave Schoenknecht, professor at Rockford College, will lead a discussion based on readings from Black Hawk's 1833 autobiography. He will look at key concepts such as land rights, sustainable living, and spiritual connections to land. Drawing comparisons to the 21st century world, the group will discuss what can be learned today from Black Hawk's words some 182 years ago. Registrants will receive a reading guide to the e-book prior to class. Although this is an indoor program, it will inspire you to go outdoors and be an active steward of natural areas. There is a $10 fee for the class. Call (630) 444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register.

Senior stroll

On Thursday, March 5, there will be a guided "Senior Stroll" at the Jon Duerr Forest Preserve, 35W003 Route 31, South Elgin. Don't let the title fool you - we're pretty liberal in our definition of "senior" and all ages of adults are welcome.

The free, guided hike begins at 10 a.m. District naturalists will interpret the natural and cultural history of this riverside preserve. Refreshments and social time follow the walk.

Explore Bliss Woods

Bliss Woods Forest Preserve is the site of our March 8 program with guest presenter Mary Ochsenschlager. Part of our "Sense of Place" program series, this guided walk will highlight the fascinating interplay of geologic, natural, and cultural history of the Sugar Grove area. Mary will tell the story of glaciers, fire, oaks, maples and people during this walk in the woods. The program begins at 1 p.m. and will conclude at 3:30 p.m. Advance registration is required. There is a $10 fee for the class. Call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register. Bliss Woods is at 5S900 Bliss Road, Sugar Grove.

Habitat restoration

If cardio exercise is more your thing, come to Creek Bend at LeRoy Oakes for a morning of habitat restoration, set for 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18.

Join us in clearing aggressive woody plants, in order to bring health to our native oak woodlands and prairie. You'll do your heart some good while doing nature some good. We supply tools and gloves, you supply the muscle. For information, call (630) 444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com.

So, emerge from hibernation. Outdoor opportunities abound in the Kane County forest preserves. Get out and get some spring in your step!

Valerie Blaine is the nature programs manager for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. You may reach her at blainevalerie@kaneforest.com