How Spending Time Outdoors Helps Mental & Physical Wellbeing

1. Exercise

Generally when we are outdoors we are doing some form of exercise whether it be playing sport or just going for an amble to the shop. Exercise releases endorphins which naturally boost our both our mental and physical wellbeing

2. Sunshine

Sunshine provides us with vitamin D which helps regulate calcium and phosphate. This in turn keeps our bones, skin and muscles healthy. Exposure to sunlight also releases serotonin which naturally makes us feel better

3. Taking a break – Reducing the Stress

Generally when we are outdoors we are taking a break from day to day life. The change of scenery can relax our mind and body. Being “at one” with nature has been proven to lower blood pressure and stress levels. See Peaceful Soul guide to Forest Bathing here

4. Help with Anxiety and Depression

Researchers at Stanford conducted a study allowing a group of depression patients to spend more time outdoors. Results presented a positive improvement in levels of anxiety and depression for that group as compared to another group that stayed indoors. See further exploration below for further information on the study

5. Boost Your Mood & Happiness

Sunlight and fresh air enhance our wellbeing and boost our mood. Just being in a natural setting can put us in a positive frame of mind and increase our happiness levels

6. Socialising

Getting outdoors can mean that we meet other people. Growing our network friends and acquaintances helps boost our mood and gives us many other benefits including; preventing loneliness, giving a sense of purpose and improved self confidence

7. A Break From Screens

Modern society and culture spend a vast amount of time in front of screens whether it be computer screens, phones or tablets. Getting out into nature can take us away from that over stimulation and in turn provide us with some well needed downtime  

8. Higher Levels of Creativity

Being out in nature, increases our level of creativity. The more sights, sounds and colours of nature we take in, the more creative we become

9. Better Concentration Levels & Enhanced Memory

Studies have shown that being outside gives us better concentration and enhanced memory function. See further exploration for further information

10. It’s Fun

The activities that we do outside can be a lot of fun. Fun provides a break from the seriousness of life and generally lightens our mood and helps our wellbeing 

11. It’s Good For The Kids

If you have kids, you’ll know the value of getting them out into the fresh air and having a run around. It’s good for their mood, confidence and exercise & wellbeing levels (and it tires them out too!) Have fun along with a well deserved rest following.