Outdoor Activities That Can Boost Your Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
In our modern world of convenience, we spend a lot of time indoors. We watch TV or browse the internet. We enjoy the controlled temperature and environment. We get spoiled! And while there's nothing necessarily wrong with being inside, getting outside is an essential part of our lives. Why? Because it boosts health and moods and overall happiness. We need to get outside, and avoiding the outdoors is detrimental to our well-being. But many people struggle with what to do once you're outside. Sit? Walk around the yard? Yard work? Luckily, going outside can be much more fun! If you need some healthy activities to help you enjoy the great outdoors, take a look at these three to try today.
Hiking
Hiking can be incredibly difficult or soft and soothing. It just depends on how you approach it. When you hike, you get in miles of cardio, and you use various muscle groups as you navigate the terrain. All you need is a good pair of shoes, protective clothing (blue jeans work!), and a pack with water. Choose a trail at a nearby park that suits your interests and ability levels, and get moving! Take a friend, do it alone -- the options are endless. And with all the time in nature, you're sure to clear your mind and learn to be in the moment.
Riding a Bike
If you want something both hard and fun, look no further than your trusty old bicycle. Cycling is hard work. You'll burn so many calories and you'll work the leg muscles until they burn. But the best part about riding a bicycle is that it's relaxing and fun. As the wind blows past you, you'll start to remember what it's like to feel carefree. You might feel the stress drop and your energy speed up. It just feels good. If you're serious about getting in better health outdoors, riding a bike is an excellent choice.
Relaxing
Sometimes the best thing you can do outside is just relax. Get a comfortable reclining chair, slather on some sunscreen, and relax. You'll still get the benefits of the outdoors -- the fresh air and the sunshine -- and you'll also get the benefit of stress relief. Don't underestimate the power of good relaxation. This is your chance to improve your health by doing absolutely nothing. Take the opportunity and roll with it.
Getting outside is so important. It's good for our lungs and our muscles and our mental health. It's great that we're spoiled in this modern world, but we still need the time-honored practice of getting our feet and hands dirty. Use these ideas to get you outside while boosting your health all at the same time.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Henderson, Nev.