Back to Basics - Are you getting outside enough?
Going outside for fresh air has always been easily accessible for the majority of us. Covid-19 put restrictions on our movements and our lives. Depending on where we lived, and our circumstances, some of us were able to get into nature more during lockdown. Whereas for others, it reduced our freedom to explore the outdoors as we normally would have. The lockdown challenged our normal daily routines and, for some, our motivation.
Many of us sit most of the day. This lack of movement can profoundly affect our overall health and wellbeing. Something as simple as going outside for a walk or bike ride around the block, by the beach, river or in nature is a great place to start.
When we go outside, we increase our exposure to sunlight which helps boost our vitamin D levels. Your body produces vitamin D naturally when it’s directly exposed to sunlight. It is essential for a well-functioning body and is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because it is produced in our skin in response to sunlight.
While most people can easily understand the physical benefits of going outside, the mental and emotional benefits are often overlooked. Not only does exercising outside boost our athletic performance, breathing fresh air is a great way to:
reduce stress and tension that may have built up in our day
boost energy and an increase of the feel-good hormones
restore focus and clarity of thought, relaxing your mind to engage in personal introspection.
helps boost your immune system by breathing in phytocides (airborne chemicals produced by plants which increases our white blood cell levels, helping us fight off diseases or illnesses).
Just like starting any type of activity or hobby, you’ll want to get outside on a regular basis if you want to see and feel the results. Something as simple as a brisk walk for 30 minutes will work wonders for your physical and mental health. So, get up from your couch or work station, and get outside. Take some time for yourself and reap the benefits that nature can offer for your physical and mental health.