There’s more to the outdoors than you think
In the midst of a demanding schedule, you may find yourself falling prey to the harmful pressures of your work environment. If you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, it may be time to step outside and get some fresh air.
Whether it's a walk in the park or a jog by the ocean, the restorative effects of spending time in the open air are boundless. Here are some of the most healing benefits of taking a little time each day to recharge outdoors.
Get Enough Sunlight
The effects of pausing to soak up some sun for a few minutes every day can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Sunlight is the most powerful source of Vitamin D, a nutrient that enhances your overall wellbeing and shields you from various illnesses.
Getting enough sunshine in your daily life can lower your blood pressure, fortify your teeth and bones, and improve the performance of your immune system. Healthy exposure to sunlight has even been linked to increased brain functioning, which can reduce one's risk of dementia.
However, the impact of the sun on your wellbeing is not limited to physical effects. Regular exposure to sunlight is also a natural antidepressant. Levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that causes feelings of happiness, increase when you are exposed to sunlight.
If you find your mood suffering because of the various stressors in your day-to-day life, catching some rays can be a simple and effective solution. Your body and mind will thank you for the much-needed time outside.
Surround Yourself with Nature
When you imprison yourself in a cubicle in front of the fluorescent glow of your computer, you're doing a large disservice to your body and mind. After even a little bit of time spent in nature and away from your desk, many positive changes can take place in your body, both physical and psychological.
You will likely notice your mood improving when you immerse yourself in the nearest green space, as exposing yourself to nature decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Integrating time outdoors into your schedule also has the power to diminish heart rate and blood pressure, solidifying the physical impact of the natural world on human health.
Spending quality time in nature is an integral part of your wellbeing, and it can be more attainable than you think. The next time you're on your lunch break, seek out a park or any green space and take in your surroundings.
Even a quick walk among some trees and grass will leave you feeling more at peace as you take on the rest of your day.
Get Active
Being outside is a great opportunity to get some exercise. There are endless activities that you can engage in to get your blood flowing, from jogging to swimming. Whatever you choose, exercise is a powerful stress reliever and can become even more effective when coupled with the healing benefits of the outdoors.
When you practice different forms of exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals that mitigate the effects of stress and help you feel good.
Exercise can also keep you focused on your activity of choice, causing you to be less prone to stress. It's difficult to feel worried or agitated when you're caught up in the momentum of your bike ride or run. With a little bit of movement and some fresh air, you can allow yourself to leave your worries back at the office.
Life can be hectic but making small adjustments in your schedule to spend more time outside is worth it. If you eat your lunch on a park bench instead of at your desk or start biking to work instead of driving, you will likely find yourself feeling lighter and with a clearer mind.
When it's eventually time to return to work, you'll be ready to tackle anything that comes your way.
