At various social gatherings I am often asked what people can do to feel better – my standard answer is “only eat real food, get outside and come and see me for an appointment”. I am often amazed at how many people dismiss my advice to get outside as flippant. I am serious – GET OUTSIDE and you will feel better.
From healing gardens, conservatories and greenhouses to restorative nature sanctuaries and forest bathing, being in nature has been used as a therapy for ages because it makes us feel better. Thankfully research is catching up and providing us with some quantitative data.
The benefits of spending time outside include:
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The best part is that the positive benefits of being outside last long after you come inside, and even cascade into other aspects of your health and wellbeing.
The research indicates that children reap even more benefit from being outside than adults, so at the risk of sounding like your parents/grandparents tell your kids to “Get outside”…and join them!
If you feel lost once you get outside (pun intended) and crave some structure don’t fret this is the perfect time to climb out of your winter cocoon – your local community is bound to have many fun Earth Day (and weekend) events going on; and/or check out the ‘Tips’ section of the 30x30 Nature Challenge…better still take the challenge and discover the benefits of being outside for yourself.
Want to Learn More?
Here's Proof Going Outside Makes You Healthier
The Powerful Link Between Conserving Land and Preserving Human Health
Gardening as a mental health intervention: a review
Remember playing outside until mom called you in for dinner? Today’s kids probably won’t.
Gardening for Health
Forest bathing enhances human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins.
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