How Getting Outside Can Boost Mental Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
The great outdoors is a special place. If you didn’t grow up getting outside often, you probably missed out on some great benefits. And to be honest, you’re probably still missing out today. And while the benefits to getting outside could make a long and comprehensive list, there’s one benefit that may be the most important and most valuable as an adult. Getting outside can boost your mental health. As stressed out, busier than ever, technology-obsessed adults, this is a benefit that is more than worth the trouble. If you’re not making the most of outdoor time, take a look at how making time to get outside can boost your mental health and keep you feeling your best.
It Brings In the Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a necessary nutrient for good health. It promotes healthy bones, stable moods, and even brain health. And since this vitamin isn’t found in very many of our food sources, the sun is the best place to get this important vitamin. When we soak in the sun's rays, we're soaking in the Vitamin D. If you want to feel better both physically and mentally, getting enough Vitamin D is key.
It Slows Your Mind
Being in nature helps us slow down. Our minds slow down their ongoing inner dialogue, and in turn, this lowers stress. If you walk outside and don't immediately feel better, just give it some time. The longer you breathe the fresh air and feel the sun and breeze on your skin, the better you're going to feel mentally and emotionally.
It Connects You to Something Real
We're bombarded with so much insincerity in today's world. We're very rarely connected to anything real. But nature helps us do just that. Looking at a picture on the internet doesn't bring the smells or the feeling on our skin or other effects on our senses. But these real sensations are just what we need to feel calm and connected to something bigger than ourselves.
Taking care of mental health is an important job. And getting outside can definitely help you do it. Make just a little time every day to get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and soak in a little sun. You’ll likely be surprised at what a big difference it makes in your overall health and the way you feel about life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Whittier, Calif.