When was the last time you went outdoors and really enjoyed it? It may have been a long time ago, but the fact is that the great outdoors is good for our health, both mentally and physically, and the general population just doesn’t get enough of it.
We are all so intent on our screens and getting our work done that we can forget just how great the benefits of being outside really are. Here are some of the best reasons why going outside and spending time in nature can be so good for you.
Stress Relief
Whether you go for a stroll down the road, a longer hike, or you decide to head out camping, being in nature is a wonderful natural stress reliever. Stress can be a big problem in our modern lives as we constantly feel under pressure to do this or complete that, or simply live up to the impossible standards set by society. When we get too stressed, our bodies and minds react badly, and we can develop heart problems, ulcers, high blood pressure, immune system difficulties, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. When not managed correctly, stress can have devastating consequences on our health and our lives. Luckily, getting outside and reducing those stress levels will have a better effect, actively reversing the problems that stress has caused in some cases.
Better Immunity
When you stay indoors all the time, your immune system can be affected badly. To get the most out of your immune system, you should be challenging it regularly. That doesn’t mean deliberately putting yourself in harm’s way, but it does mean at least going outside so that your body can become prepared for anything that might come its way in terms of health. Studies in 2010 showed that those who had spent three days in a forest had more white blood cells than those who had stayed at home. Plus, those blood cell levels remained for as much as 30 days after they returned home. Since white blood cells battle germs and keep you healthy, it’s clear to see why having more of them would be a good thing.
Good Exercise
Regular exercise is crucial in being healthy overall, but not everyone enjoys going to the gym or playing sports. Taking a walk in nature is much more pleasant, but it is still exercise, so you can lose weight and get healthy as you enjoy nature and all it has to offer. If you take your road bike rather than walking, you can get even fitter, for example. It will all depend on your initial levels of fitness and what you feel you can do (and how much time you have to dedicate to this). However, even the shortest amount of exercise is better than none at all, and over time you can build it up into something more.
Better Attention Span
It’s true that our attention spans are much-reduced thanks to technology, which is not good for our productivity levels or our focus at work or at home. However, when spending time in nature, no matter how short that time might be, our attention becomes more focused, and we can concentrate for longer. This is why, if you are having trouble dealing with a task because you can’t think clearly about it and can’t really concentrate, stepping outside for a while can help you. By the time you get back, you will be ready to continue and complete whatever project it is you are working on.
