5 Reasons To Get Outdoors This Season
Nature is a pretty spectacular phenomenon, particularly at this time of year when it really comes into its own with the celebration of colour and texture. With that in mind, we're heading outside to appreciate the landscape at its best before the winter chill sets in.
Enjoy the great outdoors in all its beauty. It’s mother nature for the win!
Whether you’re struggling with the work from home lifestyle or you’re feeling restless with the office routine, the chances are you’re not the only one staying cooped up indoors for too long. Clear your weekend schedules, climb into your cosy knits and wellies and enjoy the great outdoors in all its beauty. It’s mother nature for the win!
Breathe in some fresh air
Whether we realise it or not, the stresses of urban living can take their toll on our mental health. Getting outside in the fresh air forces us to become more mindful of our surroundings, our breathing and our state of mind.
Unplug, turn off the TV, leave your phone at home and walk aimlessly in the countryside. Savour the smells, sights and sounds as you become more aware of everything around you. You won’t regret it!
Reconnect with nature
When was the last time you hunted for conkers, or played Pooh sticks in the woods with your friends? Our busy lifestyles demand more and more from us, which is why going for a peaceful stroll and coming back to nature is always a sure-fire way to slow down, anchor your mind and body and restore our mental wellbeing. One look at the benefits of the Japanese practice of ‘forest bathing’ is enough to convince any cynics.
It boosts productivity
Getting outside is conducive to productivity. When work is overwhelming, it’s hard to tear yourself away from your laptops and emails, we hear you, but spending time outdoors will actually enhance concentration, alertness and creativity.
Next time you think you don’t have time to take your lunchbreak, get outside for half an hour and avoid that afternoon slump come 3pm. Better yet, take your work outside if you can or swap your gym session for a run in the park instead. Greenery makes everything better!
You’ll sleep better
Sure, being inside is cosy and everything (hello Netflix) but the blue light emitted by devices such as our phones and tablets can seriously mess with our sleep.
Our natural circadian rhythm is affected by exposure to direct sunlight so getting outside, even if it doesn’t appear to be particularly sunny, can help balance and synchronise your internal body clock.
Not only will you get a healthy dose of Vitamin D to help fight off the dreaded Winter fatigue, you’ll also enjoy a healthier night’s sleep. Thank you very much, nature!
It feels good!
Put simply, being outside makes you feel happier. Just like any other physical activity, walking releases mood-enhancing endorphins responsible for reducing anxiety and stress. You can head out on your own or round up the family, find a trail and make a day of it. The best things in life are free, right?
Do you enjoy spending time outside? Let us know what your favourite outdoor activities are in the comment below!
