Head Outdoors for Better Health
By Donna Stark
If you are guilty of staying indoors with your children during the hot, hazy, and humid days of summer, you are not alone. Many people try to avoid the sweaty weather as much as possible. However, staying cooped up in the coolness of your air conditioning isn't the best thing for your body. In fact, it may even promote an unhealthy lifestyle! It's vital to head outside and get some fresh air as often as you can, even if it means you need to work around the sun's schedule. Take a look at the following reasons why you should encourage everyone in the family to get off the couch and out of the house this summer.
Fewer Sick Days
Have you heard the news about phytoncides? No? Well, phytoncides are organic compounds produced by plants that are found in the air we breathe. That's important to know because they help to increase the number of white blood cells in the body, which helps the body fight against illness and disease.
In addition to the little gifts that plants give us, the great outdoors can also provide an extra dose of Vitamin D and reduce everyone's exposure to all the bacteria, germs, and contaminated air that is trapped in the home.
Improved Physical and Mental Health
Spending an active 30 minutes in nature can help improve everyone's physical and mental health. It can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, lower blood pressure, decrease stress, improve joint function, and stabilize moods. It also encourages the production of the body's feel-good chemicals, which can help alleviate levels of pain and discomfort.
Boosted Creativity
Do you know what comes with outdoor play? How about increased socialization and creativity! Playing outdoors will provide your children the opportunity to interact with their friends and strengthen those all-important social skills, like communication, sharing, and conflict resolution. On top of that, it's also a great way to encourage their creativity. Do you remember all the made-up games you used to play as a kid? So much fun, weren't they?
More Relaxation
One of the best reasons to spend more time outdoors is that it's relaxing. Few things are better than the times you get to sleep in a hammock, rock on a swing, sip on iced tea, and watch the grass grow. Spending time in nature is the ultimate way to clear your head and unwind after a hectic day.
Get Outdoors as Much as You Can!
Being outdoors during the summer is more than just swimming in a pool. It's also extremely beneficial to everyone's mental and physical well-being. So, go ahead and start planning different activities to do. You won't regret doing so!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Buford, Ga.