By Medical Solutions

December 10, 2025

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A Guide for Travel Nurses to Stay Connected During the Holidays

Taking on assignments far from home is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. But the holiday season can bring up mixed feelings when you’re away from your loved ones. Whether you’re working a holiday shift or exploring a new city, finding ways to stay connected during the holidays with family and friends can make the season feel a bit more special.

With a little planning and intention, you can keep those important relationships strong, nurture your own well-being, and create memorable holiday moments, no matter where your travels take you!

Why Staying Connected Matters

The holidays can make the distance feel even more pronounced for travel nurses. Staying in touch with your loved ones can help relieve stress, lift your spirits, and provide comfort during this busy time. Even the smallest connections can make your assignment feel a bit more like home and help support your mental and emotional well-being.

Ways to Stay Connected During the Holidays

The great news? Even if you’re away, you can still create festive moments! Here are some friendly tips to help you feel connected and supported during your travel nursing assignment.

1. Schedule Time for Virtual Celebrations 

Set aside specific times for virtual get-togethers with your family. Whether it’s joining them on a video call while they open presents or catching up before or after your shift, having a plan makes it feel special. You could even cook the same recipe together or watch a holiday movie at the same time!

2. Bring Your Traditions Along  

Just because you’re not at home doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite rituals behind. Pack a small reminder of home: a cherished ornament, your go-to holiday playlist, or a family recipe. Decorating your temporary space or keeping a little tradition alive can really bring warmth and comfort.

3. Connect with Fellow Travel Nurses and Your Unit  

Working during the holidays can create a strong bond among your coworkers. Make an effort to connect with other travel nurses and your team; you might find support in shared experiences! Some teams even organize potlucks, gift exchanges, or outings to local holiday events that can turn into lasting friendships.

4. Explore Local Holiday Events  

One of the perks of being a travel nurse is the chance to discover new places. Check out the local holiday festivities! Many cities host tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and concerts. Participating in these events can make your season feel festive and help you create new memories.

5. Send Thoughtful Gestures  

A little kindness goes a long way. Send handwritten cards, postcards from your assignment city, or small local treats to your loved ones. Some nurses even record short videos or share photos of their holiday setup to show they’re thinking of family and friends.

6. Prioritize Self-Care  

The holidays can definitely be emotionally and physically challenging, especially in healthcare. Make sure to carve out time for rest, exercise, healthy meals, and mindfulness. And let yourself feel whatever emotions come up, whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or something in between.

7. Plan a Post-Holiday Celebration  

If you can’t make it home for the actual holiday, consider planning a get-together for when your assignment is over. Many travel nurses celebrate with family later or throw a special party that fits their schedule. Delayed celebrations can be just as meaningful!

Support Makes Everything Easier 

Sure, holiday assignments can be tricky, but they can also be rewarding and filled with meaning. By being intentional about staying connected and creating your own traditions, you can enjoy a warm and fulfilling holiday season. Plus, with the right healthcare staffing agency to support you, such as Medical Solutions,  you’ll have a team that understands the unique challenges of travel nursing and prioritizes your well-being during the holidays and beyond. Here’s to making the most of every moment!

Looking for your next travel nurse assignment this holiday season? Explore exciting opportunities across the country and find the perfect fit for you on The Gypsy Nurse Job Board.

By Medical Solutions

November 12, 2025

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Housing, Meals, Incidentals: How to Make the Most of Your Travel Nurse Stipends

There are many reasons why you may have become a travel nurse. Perhaps it was the higher pay rate or the opportunity to explore new places nationwide. Or maybe you like the variety of workplace settings you get to experience. No matter the reason, one of the benefits of travel nursing is having stipends to help cover your cost of living while on assignment.

It’s important to understand how to make the most of these travel nurse stipends. Here’s a breakdown of what these stipends cover and how to maximize them to make every assignment a positive experience, covering your housing needs, meals, and any small additional expenses that occur.

What Is a Travel Nurse Housing Stipend?

A housing stipend is a non-taxable allowance for travel nurses to cover lodging and utilities while on assignment. Travel nurse staffing agencies like Medical Solutions typically offer two options: agency-provided housing or a housing stipend for nurses seeking their own accommodations.

Many RNs choose the stipend route because it offers more flexibility to select where and how they live. Some nurses prefer apartments close to work, while others might stay with friends or use short-term rental platforms. The difference can become extra savings if you find affordable housing below your stipend amount. However, remember that the housing stipend is available only if you choose not to use agency-provided housing.

How Do Travel Nurse Housing Stipends Work?

Housing stipends follow U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) guidelines for traveling professionals. The amount you receive depends on the cost of living in your assignment area. So, a contract in California will likely have a higher stipend than one in Nebraska.

To qualify, you’ll need to maintain a tax home, which is a permanent residence where you have ongoing expenses. Maintaining a tax home is crucial because your stipend may become taxable income without one. Always double-check with a tax professional or your recruiter to ensure you meet the IRS requirements before claiming a tax-free stipend.

What Is a Meals and Incidentals Stipend?

A meals and incidentals stipend is another non-taxable allowance that helps cover daily food and small personal expenses while you’re on assignment. This includes groceries, dining out, and minor costs such as laundry, transportation within your work area, and other day-to-day necessities.

These stipends are based on federal per diem rates set by the GSA and vary depending on the cost of living in your assignment’s location. The good news? If you qualify for stipends, you’ll typically receive both a housing stipend and a meals-and-incidentals stipend.

Your recruiter can explain precisely how these stipends are structured in your pay package, so don’t hesitate to ask questions—they’re there to help you understand your full compensation.

Common Misconceptions About Travel Nurse Stipends

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding travel nurse stipends. Let’s clear up a few of the most common misconceptions:

“Stipends Are Free Money”

They’re not. Stipends are designed to cover your additional living expenses while away from your permanent home. Careful budgeting can help you save some of that money, but the intent is to offset costs like rent, food, and daily necessities, not to act as a bonus.

“Stipends Are the Same Everywhere”

Stipend rates vary widely by region. Assignments in high-cost areas such as California or New York offer higher stipends to balance the higher cost of living. On the other hand, contracts in smaller or rural areas might pay less, but your stipend can often stretch further thanks to lower expenses.

“Stipends Are Always Tax-Free”

That’s not always true. If you don’t maintain a tax home or stay in one location longer than a year, your stipends can become taxable. Understanding the IRS’s tax home rules and documenting your expenses carefully can help you avoid surprises at tax time.

How to Make the Most of Your Travel Nurse Stipends

Knowing what stipends are is one thing, while making the most of them is another. Here’s how to stretch your benefits and maximize your overall compensation.

1.      Understand the Breakdown of Your Pay Package

Your compensation typically includes two main parts: a taxable hourly wage and tax-free stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals. Review your contract carefully so you understand how much is allocated to each. This will help you plan your budget and ensure transparency in your total pay.

2.      Choose Cost-Effective Housing

If you take the stipend instead of agency housing, be smart about where you stay. Look for furnished rentals on platforms like Furnished Finder, Airbnb, or Vrbo. Sharing a rental with another travel nurse can cut costs in half, while extended-stay hotels can be economical for shorter assignments. Some nurses even embrace van or RV life, staying in RV-friendly parks near their facilities.

3.      Maximize Meal Stipends

Cooking your own meals is one of the best ways to make your travel nurse stipends last. Prep meals ahead of time, pack lunches for your shifts, and shop at discount grocery stores. Apps that offer cashback on grocery purchases or loyalty programs can add up over time. Visiting local farmers’ markets can also help you save while enjoying fresh, regional produce.

4.      Explore Free and Low-Cost Activities

Travel nursing isn’t just about work. It’s also about adventure. Many cities offer free attractions like hiking trails, beaches, museums, or outdoor concerts. Check for free admission days, local festivals, or community events. Libraries often offer free rentals, classes, and workshops, making them great spots for personal enrichment and social connection. Ask your recruiter or coworkers for ideas!

5.      Be Strategic with Assignment Locations

The cost of living can drastically affect how far your stipend goes. Assignments are higher pay in certain states, but it’s important to consider the cost-of-living. You may consider targeting cities or regions with a lower cost of living so your travel nurse stipend stretches further, or your pay rate may balance it out. “Hidden gem” locations like the rural cities within states like California, Alaska, or New York often provide an outstanding balance of pay, affordability, and experience!

6.      Use Rewards and Discount Programs

Little perks add up to big savings. Use credit cards with travel points or cashback, and sign up for hotel and airline loyalty programs. Take advantage of discounts for healthcare professionals, especially through your travel nurse staffing agency. For example, the Medical Solutions’ Clinician Discount Program offers deals with major brands to help you stretch your travel nurse stipends and your salary.

7.      Track and Budget Your Expenses

Staying organized is key. Expense-tracking apps like Mint, YNAB, or EveryDollar can help you categorize spending and spot opportunities to save. Set aside portions of your travel nurse stipend for housing, meals, and incidentals—and don’t forget other personal expenses like phone bills, subscriptions, or entertainment.

8.      Invest in Yourself

Your professional growth can also help you maximize your stipend over time. Earning specialty certifications or advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying assignments. Continuing education also helps you stay competitive and confident in your travel nursing career.

Your Travel Nurse Career Starts Here

The travel nurse stipends you receive for your housing, meals, and incidentals are vital parts of a travel nurse’s total compensation package and provide considerable financial benefits when managed well. Whether you opt for travel nurse staffing agency-provided housing or take a stipend, you’ll need to budget mindfully and understand the taxation rules where you’re located.

At Medical Solutions, we’re here to help travel nurses thrive. If you’re looking to start your travel nursing career, you’ve found the right place. Apply today and let us help you keep an eye on what matters most: providing exceptional patient care and enjoying the adventures of travel nursing. We’ll handle the rest!

Your next travel assignment is waiting! Search thousands of jobs on The Gypsy Nurse Job Board and find a contract that fits your goals—and your budget.

By Triage Healthcare Staffing

November 10, 2025

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How to Actually Make Friends as a Travel Nurse

Let’s be honest, making friends as an adult is already tough. Making friends as a travel nurse while moving every 13 weeks and trying to remember which day it is after three night shifts in a row? That’s next-level. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable. You might even end up with a nationwide group of friends who understand exactly what you’re going through—the long shifts, the new city nerves and the “what did I forget to pack?” moments.

Tips for making friends as a travel nurse:

Start Your Friend Search at Work

You’re already spending 12 hours with your coworkers, so you might as well make it count. Be friendly, ask questions, and show interest in the team’s routine. Ask your new coworkers about their favorite places to eat, shop and what to see in your new town. They’ll love sharing their experiences and expertise about where they live. Chances are they’ll also appreciate a new perspective on their town.

Pro tip: travelers often bond faster with other travelers, so keep an eye out for other travelers. Bonus, if you connect them with Triage, you can refer your new buddy and score a $750 referral bonus once they complete their first assignment.

Living La Vida Local

One of the best parts about traveling is getting to live like a local. Check out community events, trivia nights or weekend markets. Sign up for a fitness class, join a climbing gym or go to a dog park (even if you don’t have a dog, trust us, you’ll make friends anyway).

It sounds obvious, but you’re more likely to meet your people when you’re actually out doing the things you enjoy.

Use Social Media Strategically

Facebook and Reddit have huge travel nurse groups, and Instagram is full of travel nurse hashtags that lead to real friendships. Reach out, comment, or post that you’re headed to a new city and looking to connect. You’d be surprised how many travelers are nearby and down for a coffee or hiking buddy. You might even find a travel buddy for future assignments.

Apps like Bumble for Friends or Meetup are also great for finding people with similar interests, no awkward introductions required.

Use Your Recruiter as a Resource

Good recruiters are like part travel agent, part therapist, part bestie. They often know where other travelers are and can connect you with someone in the same area. Plus, they’ve probably heard every “I just moved here and know no one” story in existence, so don’t be afraid to ask for local recs or introductions.

Additionally, check if your travel nurse agency offers a community for its travelers. This can help you connect with others who are in your local area.

Keep the Old Friends Too

Travel life can feel a little disconnected at times, so staying in touch with your people from home is key. Schedule FaceTime hangouts, send postcards (seriously, everyone loves getting snail mail) or plan trips during breaks. Having that support system, even from afar, makes the constant change feel a little steadier.

Travel nursing comes with built-in adventure, but the people you meet along the way can make it unforgettable. Be open, say yes to new things, and don’t stress if every connection isn’t lifelong. You’ll end up with a collection of friends from all across the country, kind of like souvenirs but better.

And if you ever need help finding a new travel nurse job, Triage can help with that part.

Ready to meet new friends on your next assignment? Start by finding your perfect travel nurse job on the TGN Job Board today!

By Meg and Ty Dewitt

September 9, 2025

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Work, Play, Explore: Why Travel Nurses Love Rapid City

Rapid City:

Rapid City, South Dakota, has everything you could want in a travel nursing contract: easy access to nature, a welcoming community, a great hospital system, and the perfect blend of small-town charm with the amenities of a city.

Known as the “Gateway to the Black Hills,” Rapid City lives up to its name. Within an hour’s drive, you’ll find jaw-dropping hikes, caves, mountain lakes, historic landmarks, and plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife. On your days off, you’ll never run out of places to explore.

Must-See Attractions for Rapid City Travel Nurses:

Custer State Park: Custer State Park is one of the crown jewels of South Dakota. The scenic Wildlife Loop Road offers incredible viewing opportunities of bison, elk, pronghorn, and burros, while hiking trails lead to granite spires, crystal-clear lakes, and panoramic views from peaks. Whether you’re driving Needles Highway, kayaking, or simply enjoying a sunset over the prairie, Custer delivers endless ways to recharge between shifts. A few of the best hikes in the area are Cathedral Spires, Sunday Gulch, Black Elk Peak, and Lovers Leap Trail.

rapid city travel nurses

Badlands National Park: Just about an hour from Rapid City, the Badlands feel like stepping onto another planet. The jagged cliffs, striped rock formations, and prairie make it one of the most unique landscapes in the U.S. In the Badlands, you can watch bighorn sheep climb along the ridges in the morning, hike through colorful canyons by day, and enjoy a sunset that paints the whole horizon in pink and gold by night. 

Wind Cave National Park: When summer temps start to rise, head underground! Wind Cave is one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world. Take a ranger-led tour and explore fascinating formations like boxwork and frostwork. It is the perfect place to cool off in the summer.

rapid city travel nurses

Nearby Lakes: There are several lakes within an hours drive from Rapid City. If you are looking for a place to swim, paddleboard, or fish, check out Pactola Lake, Sheridan Lake, Sylvan Lake, and Center Lake, just to name a few. 

Spearfish Canyon: Only about 45 min from Rapid City, this limestone canyon is filled with lush greenery, waterfalls such as Roughlock Falls, Spearfish Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and hikes like Devil’s Bathtub and Iron Creek Trail. The drive is absolutely stunning, but if you want to explore a little deeper into the canyon, you can rent UTVs at Spearfish Lodge to take the road less traveled.  

Historic Landmarks: 

Only 30 minutes from Rapid City, Mt. Rushmore features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents. You can also enjoy nearby trails, a museum, and evening lighting ceremonies. Not far from Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial is still in progress. It honors the Lakota leader and Native American heritage, with a cultural center and museum that add meaning to the visit.

Explore Nearby Towns:

Hot Springs is the perfect low-key day trip. Soak in the Moccasin Hot Springs mineral pools, explore the charming downtown, and cool off at Cascade Falls, a natural swimming hole surrounded by greenery.

Known as the “Heart of the Hills,” Hill City is a cute little town with great access to the Mickelson Trail, a scenic 100-mile trail perfect for biking or walking. Rent a bike, grab a coffee, and spend the day cruising through the pines.

Devils Tower National Monument:  Just a couple of hours from Rapid City, Devils Tower rises straight out of the prairie and is something you have to see in person. It’s a sacred place, a climber’s challenge, and a great spot for a day trip hike.

Downtown Rapid City: Rapid City might not be the largest city, but it is packed full with activity and life. There are always local events throughout the week in the square, including live music, movie nights, and plenty of great restaurants and shops. A few restaurant recommendations downtown are Kathmunda Bistro, Toastique, The Sour, and Independent Ale House. If you want to try some local coffee shops, check out Ridgeline Roasters, Essence of Coffee, and Dixon Coffee. 

For travel nurses, Rapid City really does have the best of both worlds and the perfect balance of work and play. With weekend adventures filled with hiking, wildlife, and iconic landmarks, it is easy to see why this destination leaves a lasting impression. 

Ready for your next adventure? Rapid City is more than a stop on the map; it’s a chance to grow in your career while exploring some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. If you’re looking for a contract that blends rewarding work with endless adventures, Rapid City should be at the top of your list.

By Alex McCoy

January 25, 2024

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Dear Staff Nurses: What Every Travel Nurse Wants You to Know

If you are a staff nurse who has never traveled or been interested in being a travel nurse, there is a good chance you might not understand exactly how travel nursing works. Sure, you get the gist of it: the nurse must have some sort of experience, they are hired through an agency, and they will be there for 13 weeks. 

But…what kind of experience? Are there checks to make sure they actually know what they are doing? Are they just in it for the money? 

Here are a few things every travel nurse wants the staff on units to know. Because we do take pride in our jobs and want you to feel confident when we come to work in your department! 

travel nurse

Starting a Travel Assignment Isn’t Easy

Our first assignment as a travel nurse requires a lot of paperwork. We have to gather all of our medical records and get a TB test and drug screen (for Every. Single. Assignment.) We need regular physicals and fill out a lot of paperwork. Usually, once we think we have everything together, there is something else we have to track down. All of this to say–you have to be motivated to travel, and usually for more than just money! Just getting into your first assignment takes a ton of time and effort while continuing to work your regular job.

We Take Regular Competency Tests

Each agency, hospital, and department will have a preferred set of skills checklists and assessments we have to complete before starting our job. This can range from a checklist assessing our comfort with certain diseases to medication calculation tests. Generally, if a hospital requires it upon hiring for full-time staff, we have to complete it as well. Plus, our skills checklists give your manager an “average” of what we rate ourselves in different areas, so they know exactly what they are getting upfront. 

Your Hospital Sets the Experience Requirement

Some facilities will take travelers with 1 year of experience, while others may require 2 years. It is also up to the facility whether or not the experience has to be relatively “recent”. Of course, as nurses, we care about our licenses and should not take jobs that we don’t feel confident in, but ultimately, it is the hospital or department that decides what the experience requirement will be.

travel nurse

We Take Pride in Our Work

Just because we don’t have a “home” job doesn’t mean we don’t take pride in what we do. In fact, most of us are self-motivated and take personal pride in our work. We do our best to provide the best patient care no matter the situation or location–even if it’s not an ideal work environment! 

We Know There Are Bad Eggs

That being said–we know there are people that give travel nursing a bad name. We usually understand if you have been burned by an inexperienced or unmotivated traveler and are hesitant to trust us. If you have experienced a travel nurse that makes you wary of all travelers, let us know! Maybe we can help reassure you or at least validate the experience you had. 

We Are Not in it Just For Money.

While travel nursing can be quite lucrative, there is also a lot of work that goes into it. The credentialing is extensive, but even more taxing is the moving between locations. From finding short-term housing to packing your belongings every 3 months, the sheer effort of relocating causes many travelers to go back to staff eventually. So yes, the money is nice, but we also have to love working as travelers–the money isn’t enough to keep you going long-term!

We Aren’t Here to Change Your Unit

We might have learned how to do things differently than you do things, but that doesn’t mean we are trying to change your department. If you want to learn a new way to do something, we can show you. But if we haven’t seen your way of doing things, it doesn’t mean we aren’t educated–there is always something new for us to learn as well. 

In the end, we are professionals and people just like you. Sounds cheesy, but it’s true. We are usually happy to make friends or keep to ourselves. We appreciate being included in things, but we also recognize it can be hard to warm up to us right away. Feel free to ask about travel nursing–most of us love to talk about our journeys!

Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!

Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.

Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment

Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.

By The Gypsy Nurse

August 3, 2018

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10 Spots To Get Back To Nature In Oklahoma City

This is a guest post by Sarah Miller

Get back to nature

As a travel nurse, you likely spend most of your day worrying about the well-being of others. Being on the road and on your feet for a majority of the day can certainly take its toll on your own mental and physical well-being. Now, if you’ve already had the opportunity to explore Oklahoma City, you’ll know it is a big friendly city full of garage sale fanatics, outstanding comfort food, and home of the Oklahoma City Thunder Basketball team.

Aside from the hustle and bustle of any city though, are nature’s wonders. When your work environment is exhausting and stressful–take a break from it all by relaxing in one of these stunning natural spots in Oklahoma City.

  1. Myriad Botanical Gardens

These botanical gardens are some of the city’s most beloved public areas, offering over fifteen acres of natural space to unwind. The park is home to a children’s garden, off-leash dog park, and several splash fountains. The gardens also feature dozens of walking and jogging paths and even offer educational programs and workshops to help you fully engage in the diverse ecosystem you are surrounded by. With so much to explore, it’s easy to get lost in this urban oasis.

  1. Martin Park Nature Center

This nature center advertises itself as “more than just a park,” and if you’re looking for a place to unwind, that statement couldn’t be closer to the truth. This serene location offers an interactive learning center and quiet woodland trails spanning over two and a half miles. The park also features a visitor center with live animals and an ADA accessible trail.

  1. Will Rogers Gardens

The Will Rogers Gardens offers several themed walking areas, including the Will Rogers Garden exhibition Center, the Margaret Annis Boys Arboretum, and the Charles E. Sparks Color Garden. You’ll unwind by traversing around one of the parks’ many walkways, enjoying rose gardens and beautifully cultivated landscaping features. This city park offers hands-on gardening exhibitions and horticultural classes, allowing you to learn and kick back at the same time.

  1. Earlywine Park

Earlywine Park, encompassing nearly one hundred acres, offers a more active spin on outdoor recreation, offering visitors tennis courts, an aquatic center, and a golf course. Of course, the park is also home to multiple walking and running trails, allowing you to choose between a group or solo relaxation adventure.

  1. Lake Hefner

This reservoir lake is a great place to spend a day, it is a popular spot for sailing and fishing, but is also a great place to take a deep breath. The lake features a lighthouse, and offers scenic trails that are well maintained and provide a spot for deep relaxation.

  1. Crystal Bridge

Crystal Bridge offers an outdoor experience just outside of the ordinary. This cylindrical greenhouse is home to dozens of waterfalls, along with over seven hundred different types of plants. You can traverse this greenhouse on elevated walkways, and we guarantee that just one look at the expansive greenery in this center will make you feel more tranquil almost immediately.

  1. Arcadia Lake

Arcadia Lake is a man-made lake and is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and anglers alike. That being said, this spot offers a leisurely retreat for hikers, bikers, and swimmers as well. If you’re looking for an outdoor retreat that will allow you to get up close and personal with some of Oklahoma’s wildlife, this is the place to go.

  1. Mitch Park

Mitch Park is well within the city limits, but you’d hardly know it by the relaxing experience it provides. This 280-acre park features paved trails and other recreational options, like a skate park and playground, so that you can get away from it all without having to travel far.

  1. Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge

Another great spot to observe wildlife, this refuge is a haven for native flora and fauna. It also offers some excellent forest areas for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking, allowing you to enjoy the area’s native environment without having to drive for hours outside of the city.

 South Lakes Park

This park spans over 150 acres and offers numerous amenities to the forever stressed population of Oklahoma City. Visitors enjoy soccer fields, walking trails, and fishing ponds, all within the comfort of the Oklahoma City limits.

It can be tough to find time to relax and unwind with your busy schedule. However, by taking a moment to breathe deep in one of these outdoor spots in Oklahoma City, you’ll likely find yourself more energized, invigorated, and ready to return to your important career.

Sarah Miller is a writer, self-claimed nutritionist, and CrossFit junkie. She spends most of her time meal prepping and actively trying to beat personal records in the gym, but always enjoys a meditative walk through a nearby woodland area or near a lake.