4 Ways Time Spent Outside Improves Your Health

We’ve all familiar with the idea that eating well and exercising regularly can improve our physical and mental health. But an often overlooked aspect of wellness is actually time spent outside.

For many of us, much of our lives are spent indoors, behind a screen, and in urban environments with little access to green space. Access to green spaces and time spent in nature has been shown to have many positive affects on both your mental and physical wellness.

From lessened symptoms of depression to decrease risk of cardiovascular disease, access to nature can help us to be our healthiest selves. Here are four ways that getting outdoors can help you on your wellness journey.

1.Better Sleep

Your circadian rhythm is basically your body’s internal clock that responds to cues from your environment to tell your mind and body when it is time to sleep and wake. One of these triggers is sunlight.

When we spend our days in an office, especially during the shorter days during the winter months, we might not be getting enough sunlight to trigger our natural sleep cycles.

The science is clear and research continues to support having direct sun exposure each day can help to support a healthy and functioning circadian rhythm (even when it’s cloudy!)

Aim to get 15 minutes of direct sunlight everyday. Get out for a walk on your lunch break or enjoy your morning coffee on your front porch. If it’s too rainy or cold, standing at a window and observing the world outside should suffice.

2. ImproveD Mental Health

Along with improved sleep, sunlight exposure also helps your body produce vitamin D, a vitamin that researchers believe has a direct correlation with mood. This is illustrated by low levels fo vitamin D seen in patients exhibiting symptoms of depression.

Time spent outdoors is also shown to lower cortisol levels, a hormone tied to stress and anxiety. Newer research says that time in nature can also help to boost both creativity and problem-solving skills.

Whatever the reason, it seems clear that spending time in nature can greatly improve your mood, lower your stress, and make you feel better overall.

Next time you see a friend or have some time off, try to take your recreation outdoors rather than a bar. Spend time at a park or even go for a hike to unwind. You might even save a little money!

3. Stronger Immune System

Not only does time outside lower your cortisol levels, it can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, getting outside often means that you will be engaging in a physical activity like walking, swimming, or hiking. These activities can be especially helpful with weight loss or weight management.

All of these benefits are great on their own, but also work together to improve your overall health and improve your immune system. When you are taking care of your body and mind, your body is better able to fight off illness.

Not only does time outside benefit you physically, but it reduces the chances of passing or catching any illnesses with your friends or family. At a crowded bar or restaurant, you are in close contact with a lot of people. Outdoors, there is enough fresh air to prevent most airborne illnesses.

4. Breathe Easier

Indoor air pollution is two to five times higher indoors that outside, especially if you live in a bigger, more congested city or close to a road. For this reason alone, it is a good idea to try to get as much fresh air as possible.

In addition to the lower pollution levels, you are also likely moving your body. Activities like hiking, walking, running, biking, or swimming all exercise your heart and lungs just like they do your muscles. And just like your muscles, working your heart and lungs makes them stronger.

I recommend that not only do you spend time outdoors, but you do so while moving your body in some way. Find an activity you like and stick with it to see the benefits!