Why You Should Enjoy Your Park and Recreation Time
By Brandi Goodman
Getting outside is more than just fun. It's a great way to boost your physical and mental health as well. National Park and Recreation Month in July encourages people to get out more and enjoy their leisure time at parks and other recreation sites within their state. Many reasons exist why you should.
Boosting Mood
The outdoors has so much beauty to offer. Just being outside in any capacity can help to boost mood and help people feel at ease. Find a fun activity to participate in while you're outdoors and you're even more likely to experience a better mindset. Take a walk through a local nature trail or head on over to the water to simply sit and soak in the sun. You'll soon see how much better you can feel.
Social Interactions
Though you can enjoy time outside alone, recreation time is also ideal for social interactions. Head to the park with a friend and toss a Frisbee or join in on a sport. Social interaction is necessary for well-being. Finding ways to spend time with another person besides sitting indoors is ideal for mood and health overall.
Increased Vitamin D
Vitamin D is provided by the sun. Yes, you want to wear sunscreen if you're outdoors to block out the harmful rays, but you can still absorb some Vitamin D through the skin. Skip the sunscreen during the evening hours when the sun isn't as harsh and you'll still get a good dose. This vitamin is necessary for bone strength and other bodily functions.
Enhancing Fitness
Your fitness level can also be enhanced by spending time at parks or recreational areas. Any activity you do, such as walking, tossing a ball, and even swinging can all help you become more physically fit. Exercise is important for the mind and body. It releases endorphins to enhance your mood while also working the muscles and joints to make them flexible and strong. Just be sure you visit the chiropractor before starting any new routine so joint restrictions that could cause stiffness are not a problem.
National Park and Recreation Month should not be the only time you head outdoors. Visit your local parks and even park as far away as often as possible in order to get in a few more steps. Find activities you enjoy so you can soak up the sun and the atmosphere around you for better health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Noblesville, Ind.