Have a lunchtime microadventure

http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/apr/12/have-lunchtime-microadventure

Version 0 of 1.

A lunchbreak is the perfect time to do something different, says the adventurer Alastair Humphreys. "Microadventures take away the usual obstacles, such as expense and time, and suggest a way of enjoying the outside world within the limitations of our home and work life."The key is to rethink how we view the seem­ingly ordinary world around us. We imagine a walk or adventure has to happen in beautiful rolling countryside – and of course, it's often hard to find the time to get out there. But even in the middle of towns and cities there are canals, parks, historic buildings, and plenty of wildlife. Rather than wasting a precious hour eating a sandwich at your desk, or sitting down in front of another episode of Doctors, strike out into your local neighbourhood and treat it like a wild landscape. Observe the seasons – are the plants and trees flowering or in leaf? Look up at the sky, and use our guide to identify the clouds. With a bit of practice you will be able to predict what the weather will do next.Or try a commuter microadventure by taking a different route to the station. Catch a bus instead of a tube, walk down parallel streets. Look at your routine, and force yourself to break it, even if it's just once a week.

Your challenge

• Look out of an upstairs window and choose a point on the horizon - a church spire, a tree, a block of flats.• Attempt to reach your destination without using a map – don't worry if you don't reach it, that's half the fun. • Use your phone, or a camera, to take pictures every 10 minutes, to focus your eye on unexpected detail.Kit list: • Watch • Camera• Sense of direction