Yes, simply being outdoors in nature can keep those happy-hormones flowing.
How does spending time outdoors make us happier, stronger and less stressed?
The outdoors is a great source of vitamin D
Being out in the sun exposes you to sunlight, which your skin uses to make vitamin D as a nutrient for your body. Vitamin D can help improve your immune system, make your bones stronger and lower your risk of developing diseases and various types of cancer.
The Outdoors can be the calm after the storm
“Moving your body and being outside in nature can help your body to recover after stressful events in your life,” says psychiatrist, Patrick Kane, M.D. Being in nature can reduce cortisol levels and muscle tension. Maybe we all need a bit of this after the stress of the Rugby World Cup Final!
The outdoors will help you sleep like a baby
Our circadian rhythm, also known as our internal clock, regulates how our body functions, and research supports that it is directly affected by how much sunlight you are exposed to. Bright light during the day will help you feel more alert and awake and can help you fall asleep easier and feel more tired at night.
Can help with feelings of depression
Research suggests that exposure to sunlight impacts your body’s serotonin levels – a chemical that plays a vital role in your mood. Getting regular exposure to daylight can help raise your spirits and improve your focus.
The Outdoors strengthens family bonds
Every family member needs to let loose and have fun, so why not do it together? Parents are the ultimate role models, and you can show your kids the importance of finding joy in the outdoors. Savour the moments together while reaping all the other benefits.
“Just a 50-minutes in nature can improve your attention and concentration, [and] your working memory by about 20%.”
Marc Berman, associate professor of psychology at the University of Chicago
Rustics Jungle Gyms has just the right equipment to get you and your family outdoors