5 Physical and Mental Benefits of Being Outside
Did you know that 60% of adults spend less than 5 hours a week outdoors? More and more people are staying indoors and don’t get enough time outside. Yet there are so many ways to appreciate nature and enjoy its benefits.
Do you think you need to get outdoors more often? Spending time out in nature is one of the best things you can do to improve your mental and physical health. If you are looking for motivation, check out the top five benefits of being outside below.
1. Lowers Blood Pressure
One of the first reasons to consider spending time in nature is that it can have a positive effect on your physical health. Studies have shown that looking at trees for a period of time can lower blood pressure. This benefit comes from both gazing at trees or walking around trees, whether it is in an urban environment or a forest.
2. Improves Mood
Connecting with nature has also been shown to have a positive effect on people’s mental health and moods, too. After spending time outdoors, there is an improvement in the participant’s state of mind. Being around trees can lessen anxiety and increase happiness and overall feelings of well-being.
3. Boost Immunity
When you are outside, your body absorbs Vitamin D from sunlight, which is a critical nutrient needed for your body to function properly. Vitamin D plays an important role in boosting your immune system and other health functions. And you don’t have to go outdoors for a huge amount of time, since being outside for around half an hour can increase your Vitamin D intake and immunity.
4. Increases Fitness
If you are doing more than just sitting and looking at trees, spending time outside moving around can help improve your physical fitness. Even the simple act of walking in nature is a physical activity that is beneficial to your health. If you want to up the exercise factor, try alternating your walks with jogging or biking on your nature jaunts.
5. Benefits of Being Outside in the Wilderness
Do you really want to make the most of the great outdoors, and increase the positive effects of spending time there? Then take a backcountry camping trip for a few days in a state or national park. Being outdoors for an extended period of time in the wilderness can increase the benefits of being in nature, and promote well-being.
Spend More Time Outdoors
Now that you’ve learned about the benefits of being outside, you can get out more. Make a point to schedule some time in nature every day, whether it is sitting on a park bench or taking a walk in a forest. If you need motivation, find a walking partner to help get you outdoors more often.
Did you enjoy reading this article? Want to explore similar topics? Then check out some more great content in the Health section on this site!
