In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to find ourselves glued to screens indoors, disconnected from the natural world around us. However, taking the time to step outside and immerse ourselves in nature can have profound benefits for our overall well-being. From mental clarity to physical health, being outdoors offers a plethora of advantages that we simply can’t afford to overlook. Join Gaithersburg Dietitian Kay Loughrey in this blog post as we explore the numerous benefits of outdoor activity and provide practical tips on how to incorporate more outdoor time into your daily routine.
The Benefits of Being Outside:
- Mental Health Boost: Numerous studies have shown that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The tranquility of nature helps to calm the mind and promote feelings of relaxation and happiness.
- Improved Physical Health: Outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and cycling provide excellent opportunities for exercise, helping to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and boost overall fitness levels. Additionally, exposure to natural sunlight facilitates the production of vitamin D, essential for maintaining healthy bones and immune function.
Remember, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. While the sunshine offers so many benefits, it can also be harmful. Read our past blog Practice Sun Safety about how to stay safe when outdoors to get the most out of the sun as you can while avoiding the side effects.
- Enhanced Creativity: Nature has a remarkable ability to inspire creativity and stimulate the imagination. Whether it’s the sight of a breathtaking landscape or the sound of birdsong, spending time outdoors can ignite our creative spark and enhance problem-solving skills.
- Stress Reduction: The sights, sounds, and smells of nature have a soothing effect on the body and mind, helping to lower cortisol levels and alleviate stress. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a park or a weekend camping trip, time spent outdoors provides an opportunity to unwind and recharge.
Tips for Getting More Outdoor Time:
- Start Small: Incorporating outdoor time into your daily routine doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by taking short walks during your lunch break or spending a few minutes each morning in your backyard or local park.
- Explore Nearby Parks: Take advantage of the natural spaces in your community by exploring nearby parks, trails, and greenways. Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, or simply find a quiet spot to sit and soak up the beauty of your surroundings.
- Make It a Habit: Treat outdoor activity like any other habit you’re trying to cultivate. Set aside dedicated time each day or week for outdoor pursuits and stick to your schedule as much as possible.
- Unplug and Disconnect: Leave your electronic devices behind and fully immerse yourself in the outdoor experience. Disconnecting from technology allows you to be present in the moment and fully appreciate the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature.
- Try Something New: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new outdoor activities. Whether it’s kayaking, rock climbing, or birdwatching, exploring unfamiliar terrain can lead to exciting adventures and memorable experiences.
The benefits of outdoor activity are undeniable. By prioritizing time spent in nature, we can enhance our physical and mental well-being, cultivate a deeper connection to the environment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor living. So, why wait? Step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace all that the great outdoors has to offer. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it.
References:
American Heart Association. Spend Time in Nature to Reduce Stress and Anxiety. [Internet]. [cited 2024 March 21]. Available from: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/spend-time-in-nature-to-reduce-stress-and-anxiety
Bratman GN, Daily GC, Levy BJ, Gross JJ. The benefits of nature experience: Improved affect and cognition. Landsc Urban Plan. 2015;138:41-50. doi:10.1016/j.landurbplan.2015.02.005
University of California, Davis Health. 3 Ways Getting Outside Into Nature Helps Improve Your Health. Cultivating Health [Internet]. 2023 May [cited 2024 March 21]. Available from: https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/3-ways-getting-outside-into-nature-helps-improve-your-health/2023/05
Tost H, Champagne FA, Meyer-Lindenberg A. Environmental influence in the brain, behavior, and mental health. [cited 2024 March 21]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9268447/
Dadvand P, Bartoll X, Basagaña X, Dalmau-Bueno A, Martinez D, Ambros A, Cirach M, Triguero-Mas M, Gascon M, Borrell C, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ, Sunyer J. Green spaces and general health: roles of mental health status, social support, and physical activity. [cited 2024 March 21]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9363772/
Sandifer PA, Sutton-Grier AE, Ward BP. Exploring connections among nature, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human health and well-being: Opportunities to enhance health and biodiversity conservation. Ecosyst Serv. 2015;12:1-15. doi:10.1016/j.ecoser.2014.12.007
- Click here to watch the Latest Sweet Life Wellness Podcast Episode on How to Enjoy Mindful Eating.
- Click here to listen for FREE on Apple Podcasts.
- Want to listen for FREE on Spotify? Click here.
Kay Loughrey, MPH, RDN, LDN
Transformational Speaker, Breakthrough Coach, Nutritionist-Dietitian
Emma O’Connor, Nutrition Intern
Student, Master’s degree program in Nutrition
North Carolina Central University
Thank you for reading this blog post. Join the Sweet Life Newsletter to stay up to date on blog posts, events, and other ways to live your best sweet life.