How Being Outside Benefits Your Health

We all know some fresh air will do you good. But what is the “good” you get for spending time outside?

Improves Mood and Focus

Getting away from the computer or phone and stepping outside for a moment of fresh air and sunshine is shown to improve mood and focus. You don’t even need to spend hours outside to reap increased happiness and zen. One study has shown that as little as 2 hours outside a week is enough to reduce feelings of anger and depression. That breaks down to about 17 minutes per day!

Getting outside can be easy too - walking out to the mailbox, walking the dog, planting flowers, sitting in a chair on your front step or in a chair under a tree.

Lowers Stress and Blood Pressure

Bring out and in nature has proven to lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and adrenaline (triggers high blood pressure). The calming presence of nature like sun touching skin, birds chirping, and wind in trees naturally lowers these levels in the body. Can I hear an amen? Whenever I feel anxious or stressed, whether it be from work or life in general, I’ve noticed stepping outside (not even going on a walk) helps center me and calms me before going back in.

Supports Immunity & Strong Bones

Vitamin D, absorbed through skin from sun rays, helps the body absorb calcium which allows for the building and maintaining of strong bones. As I get older I’ve noticed increased pain (why does getting older mean more pain?) and so getting some extra Vitamin D is on my list. Vitamin D also helps the body fight against stroke, osteoporosis, and cancer.