I understand what you mean. Usually for all of us our backs are arched and are necks are down. Very little attention is payed for what is around us except for what is on the ground or in the water. I have lunch and all I do is look around.
My philosophy exactly. If you can't see the beauty except for the gold....then you're missing out on the true experience of being able to do what we like doing......and have fun with it I always take my camera and spend time taking in the majesty of the surroundings and not just total focus on the gold.
My version of enjoying the outdoors and having fun..... and a couple cold beers at the end don't hurt either