Benefits of Being Outside | Add to the Global Bulletin Board
Did you know that one of the best gifts is right outside and doesn't cost a thing? That's right, meet Mother Nature! There are many mental and physical benefits of being outdoors, and today we're sharing some of our favorites. After all, we can't take care of our Earth if we don't first take care of ourselves. (Don't mind all the cute animal pics, we couldn't resist!) 😍
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” — Native American Proverb
Breathe In, Breathe Through, Breathe Deep, Breathe Out
Taylor Swift's 2022 NYU commencement speech reminded us that we can use our breath to help when times are challenging. Her words, referenced in our headline above and on her Midnights album, serve as a helpful mantra when we are out in nature.
Air pollutants are found to be much more concentrated indoors versus outside. "Get some fresh air," isn't just a saying! Getting outside can make you less likely to develop respiratory illnesses. Try to find places like large parks or open camp areas where air circulation is greatest.
Improve Your Immune Support
You are less likely to contract viruses when you are outside, including the virus that causes COVID-19! Tiny non-dangerous microorganisms outside help keep your immune system in tip-top shape.
Restore Your Mind
Time spent in nature can help restore your mind. This is incredibly important in a world that is governed by bright screens and phones that never stop buzzing. Being in nature gives us a break from the hubbub of society, allowing us to access feelings of peace, happiness, and wellbeing that are sometimes too few and far between.
Find Great Hobbies
During the pandemic, birdwatching and other safe outdoor activities surged in popularity. There are so many wonderful ways to take in the great outdoors, and you may find a new hobby while you're at it!
Go hiking (Cleveland Clinic reminds us that there are no limits to what is considered hiking!)
Watch birds in your backyard or nearby park
Go the beach
Volunteer at a community event, like a beach cleanup!
Attract butterflies by planting a garden with native plants
Ride your bike along the trails
Paint on your front porch
Reduce Risk of Heart Disease
Being active in nature improves your circulation and makes your heart stronger. Doctors are actually prescribing nature walks these days, and heart health is just one of many reasons why.
Sleep Better
Get a little sunshine and you might just sleep better at night! According to Healthline, sunlight can impact your circadian rhythm since our internal clocks run in relation to the sun, resulting in improved sleep.
Fundraiser for Nature Events
Nature is a gift, and we want to give that gift to more people in our communities. Please consider purchasing a 2022 Special Edition Holiday Ornament to support our nature programs. Each ornament is $15, and we need to hit 100 orders to print. Thank you for your support!
How does nature make you feel?
Share your answer with the world and watch it appear our global bulletin board.
Some Heavier Reading
If you're looking for more on this topic, we encourage you to take a look at these scholarly journal articles about the impacts of nature on our health and wellbeing.