There are so many studies on how being outside is healthier for a person. I found it ironic that when I googled ‘does being outside…’ before I even finished typing, it suggested does being outside make you happier, help mental health, reduce stress, increase serotonin, and so many more. Apparently, a lot of people are wondering about similar things!
According to the US Department of Agriculture, spending time outdoors has been known to help increase relaxation, reduce stress, relieve muscle tension, and even lower heart rate. Being outside can also lower the risk of depression and increase the recovery rate of psychological stress.
So how can we create more time to be outdoors?
- Move dinner to the patio
Eating outside can cause less distractions, creating happier conversations and more presence with the people you love. Typically eating outside has a better view than eating inside and can promote relaxation. When your body is less stressed, it will break down your food easier, helping your body to absorb the nutrients you need. Natural light is also known to lower the chances of obesity, diabetes, and other diseases.
2. Adding activity to your outdoor space.
Being outside has been proven to increase your physical and mental health. Adding simple outdoor games can make your backyard a fun place to hang out. Basic games like cornhole, horseshoe, ring toss, and more, can keep your body moving and help stimulate all 5 senses. People who are active outdoor typically burned 20% more calories than people who were active indoor.
3. Sit back and relax
Just 10-15 minutes of sunshine a day can increase your vitamin-D levels, which can improve your immune health. Being outside also lowers cortisol levels, which reduces stress by 21% per hour. Being outside can also improve your mood and help with depression/anxiety. So, grab a lounge chair and just spend some time relaxing outside on your patio, whether it’s reading a good book or socializing with friends.
Giving your mind a break from technology can also lower stress levels. Soaking up the sun can increase serotonin levels. Being outside can reset your body clock, improving sleep quality. There are so many benefits to spending time outdoors and now that the weather is warming up, it’s the perfect time to start implementing social and relaxing time outside!
