The Perks To Going Outside

Nature, the great outdoors, call it what you will, but let's be real – in North America, we don’t do spend as much time in it as we should. Going outside has numerous benefits for both our physical and mental health and it’s important to do this especially in the winter months, when it’s colder and the days are shorter. Here are just a few reasons why you should make it a priority to spend time in nature:

Exercise: Being outside allows for a change of scenery and can make working out more fun. Whether it's going for a hike, a bike ride, or just taking a walk, being in nature can provide a more engaging and motivating environment for physical activity.

Vitamin D: Spending time in the sun allows our bodies to produce vitamin D, a nutrient essential for bone health and the prevention of certain diseases. 

Stress relief: Nature has a calming effect on our minds and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.

Improved mental well-being: Being outside can also improve mood and cognitive function. It can help reduce symptoms of depression, improve attention, and boost overall well-being.

Better air quality: The air outside is generally cleaner and healthier than the air inside. Go figure! Spending time outside can help reduce exposure to mechanical pollutants and improve lung function.

Connection with nature: Being outside allows us to connect with the natural world and can provide a sense of perspective and grounding.

There are even more perks to going outdoors, and you can see them the more you venture outside. Just don't forget to dress appropriately, wear sunscreen and bring bug spray. There's nothing worse than an itchy and sunburnt shoulders.

So, when you're free, grab your hiking boots and hit the trails, or just lay on the grass and stare at the clouds, because there's nothing like a good dose of nature to make you feel alive.