Benefits of Being Outside and How to Get Outdoors More
It’s a simple enough concept: Getting outside each day. However, the outdoors can quickly become an afterthought with a busy schedule. It’s time to reframe that mindset and make outside play a priority – rain or shine – to improve everyday life.
Here are several benefits of being outdoors more:
1. Stress reduction
Studies show that spending time in nature can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones. Fresh air can aid in oxygen levels, which leads to increased serotonin (aka the “happiness chemical.”)
2. Improved mood
Nature also brings us into the present moment and teaches us to enjoy our surroundings, which can help relieve anxiety, anger, and sadness. Spending time in a lush, green environment can provide extra relaxation.
3. Vitamin absorption
We all need vitamin D to thrive, but studies show many adults are deficient. Sun exposure is ideal for getting vitamin D the natural way, which helps with immune system function.
4. Pain relief
Research also shows time outdoors may help with illnesses for its benefits to the immune system and ability to reduce inflammation.
5. Boosted creativity
Nature invites us to unplug from technology, allowing our minds to expand. With free thinking comes more creativity and sharper ideas.
So, how can one prioritize the outdoors to reap these benefits daily?
Take a walk around the neighborhood
Multiple walks per day help our minds and bodies reset. But, if just once a day works, try doing so in the morning to start off on the right foot. Leave the technology at home, if possible!
Exercise
Exercising outside can heighten endorphins. Try a group yoga class in the park or a watersport like paddleboarding or surfing. A simple HIIT routine in the backyard does the trick, too. Remember to drink water!
Change commutes
Set the car keys down and walk or ride a bike to meet friends or get groceries. It’s a fun and easy way to enhance a leisurely day when a full-on workout in warm weather feels like too much. Or, consider parking farther away from a destination to get some extra steps in.
Start a garden
Green thumbs aren’t necessary for simple gardens. Low-maintenance vegetables and herbs include chives, green onions, oregano, and arugula, and growing food at home can help reduce carbon emissions.
Work from home
A remote job makes it easy to work from anywhere, including outside, as long as there is WiFi. Interested in an online business lifestyle but don’t know where to begin? Join my community of like-minded entrepreneurs to get started.