Summer has arrived in Northern Arizona, beckoning us to grab our hats, dust off our bikes, lace up the trail shoes and shake out the picnic blankets. Being in the open spaces and great outdoors is enjoyable. But did you know there is evidence that proves spending time outside can actually make you happier and healthier?
Here are just a few reasons to go outdoors:
Nature Decreases Stress
Being in a natural environment provides a feeling of relaxation that reduces anxiety and stress. In fact, just seeing pictures of nature can help bring a sense of rest and peace. Additionally, the scent of many plants such as lavender, jasmine, lilacs and roses is proven to lighten the mind and relax the body. Breathing in the forest-fresh scent of pine has even been shown to lower depression and anxiety.
Nature Eases Depression
Doing activities in nature naturally lifts the mood, decreases depression and anxiety, and brings a sense of peace. A University of Michigan study links nature walks to better overall mental health and positivity; fewer feelings of depression and stress; and a reduction in anti-depression and anti-anxiety medications. The study also showed that people who exercised outdoors had a lower risk of poor mental health than those who exercised indoors.
Nature Restores Brain Function
Interacting with nature gives your brain a break from everyday overstimulation, which translates into a restorative effect. Whether it is extreme sports, gardening or neighborhood walks, nature provides passive stimulation, which allows the brain’s energy to recover and replenish, much like recharging a battery. The simple act of a casual stroll or tending a garden can yield amazing results, without much thought or energy required.
Nature Increases Focus and Concentration
A study published by the National Institutes of Health recognizes what our mothers always knew: Children who play outside at least once a day are more focused and have better concentration skills than those who remain indoors for long periods of time. The same can be said of adults. Have a difficult task or decision or trouble concentrating? Perhaps some outdoor time will lift the fog and bring clarity.
Nature Helps You Age Gracefully
Getting outside on a daily basis helps people stay healthy and functioning longer. The Journal of Aging Health reports that people age 70 or older who regularly spent time outdoors have fewer health-related complaints than those who do not go outside each day. Numerous studies suggest gardening can help dementia and stroke patients live a higher quality of life by instilling confidence while increasing mobility and dexterity.
Nature Makes Exercise Easier and More Productive
Research conducted at the University of Essex found the color green, such as trees, grass and other plants, makes exercise feel easier. Additionally, people who run or cycle outside exert more energy than those on treadmills or stationary bikes. Most people enjoy outside exercise more, which means they are more likely to exercise on a regular basis and for longer periods of time than gym-goers.
Nature Promotes a Healthy Immune System
In our modern work-and-play-indoors society, many people are deficient in vitamin D, which naturally comes from the sun. Vitamin D not only helps the body absorb calcium, it is also an essential element of a strong immune system. And breathing fresh air, especially when exerting yourself, helps stimulate the body to fight intruders, produce illness-fighting white blood cells, prevent sickness and keep our heart healthy.
Nature Can Improve Sleep
Sleep patterns are regulated by an internal body clock called the circadian rhythm, which is naturally tied to the sun’s schedule. Spending too much time inside away from natural light can alter our circadian rhythms, resulting in poor sleep patterns. Want to sleep when it is dark? Get outside when it is light.
The Bottom Line
Spending time outdoors is good for you, increasing happiness and health and inducing an overall sense of well being. And, living in Northern Arizona makes enjoying nature easy – just step outside. FBN
By Samantha Buchika, M.D.
Samantha Buchika, M.D., is a board-certified anesthesiologist with Forest Country Anesthesia, specializing in outpatient surgery. As an amateur adventurer, Dr. Buchika spends much of her time outdoors hiking, biking, skiing, fishing and camping, which fuels her appreciation for the importance of natural environments in improving and maintaining health and wellbeing. Dr. Buchika made Flagstaff her home in 1998, relocating from the New England area. She is married and has two stepsons and two border collies.
To learn more about Dr. Buchika and Forest Country Anesthesia, visit ForestCountryAnesthesia.com or call 928-773-2505.