Get Out the Sleeping Bag for Your Health
By Tom Herrin
Chances are that most people did some kind of camping out as a child. It may have been one of those times in which they got together with some friends and slept out in the backyard. It was likely fun then, but as people got older, they often moved on to other things. In the busy times in which they live today, most people can benefit from some kind of outdoor experience. The idea of getting in touch with nature is not new nor is it all that innovative. It can serve to provide the kind of break that most people find themselves needing.
It May Help Get Better Sleep
Most people are aware that there is something special about sleeping outdoors. Many people have schedules that force some pretty unnatural sleeping routines. A University of Colorado study found that when people spend time living in the outdoors, living by the schedule of the sun, they become more balanced. It doesn't take long to begin waking up when the sun rises and winding down when it sets. It may be a great way to adjust to a better sleep schedule without using artificial sources.
It Can Help Supply Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often referred to as the sunshine vitamin. This is largely due to the fact that the sun is the most abundant source of it. Spending time in the natural light of the sun may provide a real boost. This vitamin has been known to help prevent some cancers, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a few other things. This is one more perk associated with camping that makes it an easy way to jump start health when people seem to be a little too bound by a hectic schedule.
It May Reduce Stress
For the most part, we all have various stresses in our lives. Some of it is work related, some is family related, and some is financial. There are lots of other causes, but getting back to nature can help to reduce much of that stress. Simply getting away from all of the electronics that we live with every day can be a good start. There have been many indications that simply observing nature can be relaxing. I know one of my favorite ways to get away is to go camping. We always looked forward to it as a family. All we had to do was say the word, and everyone was ready to go.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Newnan, Ga.