As the world around us becomes increasingly urbanized, it is more and more important to stay connected with nature. Nature offers many benefits and opportunities for personal growth and enrichment that can help us lead healthier, happier lives. Here are 6 reasons why staying outside with nature is so important.
1. Stress Relief
One of the most important reasons to stay outside with nature is stress relief. Research has shown that connecting with nature can help reduce stress, improve mental health and well-being, and improve mood.
This study published by Harvard Medical School showed that a short 20-minute nature break can help relieve stress.
Spending time in natural environments has been proven to lead to lower cortisol levels – a hormone associated with stress – as well as decreased heart rate and blood pressure.
Whether you’re taking a stroll through a park or cooking a big meal in your outdoor kitchen, just being outside can help clear your mind and make it easier to cope with life’s stressors.
Additionally, for example, many people that use summer kitchens and outdoor living spaces report feeling more relaxed, happier, and generally healthier when they spend time outside. It is important to make sure you are taking time out for yourself to relax in nature.
2. Boost Physical Health and Fitness
Not only does spending time outdoors provide great opportunities for physical activity, but even simply being outside can provide some great benefits. Going for a hike or a bike ride, playing catch with your kids, taking the dog for a walk – the possibilities are endless.
Studies have shown that spending time outside can lead to improvements in physical health and fitness, as well as increased energy levels. Even if you’re not an avid outdoors person, just making sure to spend some time outside regularly can be beneficial.
This article from the University of Minnesota states…
“Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical wellbeing, reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones. It may even reduce mortality, according to scientists such as public health researchers Stamatakis and Mitchell.”
3. Improved Cognitive Function
Spending time outdoors also has been proven to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that nature exposure can help improve concentration, attention span,, and creativity, as well as overall cognitive performance.
This is likely due in part to improved mental clarity and relaxation from being away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
4. Improved Sleep Quality
Being outside with nature can also help improve sleep quality and duration. Studies have discovered that spending time outdoors can help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more alert and refreshed.
This is most likely due to the calming effects of being out in nature, as well as a decrease in blue light exposure from electronic screens – both of which have been shown to negatively affect sleep quality.
5. Elevate Your Mood and Improve Mental Health
Spending time outside can also provide an opportunity for an increased connection with nature, which can be incredibly beneficial for both your physical and mental health.
Mental Health Foundation states…
“Nature can generate many positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, and creativity and can facilitate concentration. Nature connectedness is also associated with lower levels of poor mental health, particularly lower depression and anxiety.”
Taking the time to appreciate the beauty of nature can help increase feelings of happiness and awe, as well as provide a sense of calmness and relaxation. Not just that, being outside with nature can increase a sense of belonging and connection to the world around you.
Read: 6 Ways How to Maintain Good Mental Health
6. Overall Wellbeing
The overall health benefits of spending time in nature are undeniable – from improved physical fitness to increased cognitive performance, better sleep, and decreased stress levels.
Spending time outside with nature is essential for maintaining your well-being – both physically and mentally – as it provides an opportunity to connect with yourself, appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, and gain a sense of peace and calmness. Everyone needs this in their life.
What are some activities you can do outdoors?
There are many activities you can do outdoors to make the most of your time spent in nature. Whether it’s a stroll through the park or an invigorating hike up a mountain, getting out and exploring nature is an excellent way to spend your time outside.
You’ll get to observe some stunning views, explore new terrain, and work on improving your fitness at the same time! Also, there’s nothing quite like observing different species of birds in their natural habitats.
Not only is it incredibly calming, but it also provides an opportunity for learning about their behaviors and habits. Plus, there’s the bonus of being able to take in some stunning views.
Fishing is another great activity you can do outdoors. Not only does it provide a chance to relax and enjoy nature, but it also allows anglers to practice the technique and hone their skills.
If you have no idea what kind of outdoor activities you should do, check out this list.
Making sure that you spend time outside regularly is essential for a well-rounded lifestyle. Whether it’s taking a stroll in your local park or going for a more invigorating hike up a mountain, just being outdoors can help reduce stress levels and improve physical and mental health.
So, don’t forget to take some time out for yourself to relax in nature – it will do wonders for your overall well-being.