Surprising Benefits of Spending Time In Nature

As humans we are designed to thrive in a much different environment than the one we are most often experiencing. Urban sprawl, busy work schedules, and the fast-paced lives that many of us live has become the new normal. This ”rat race” way of living is in direct opposition to what our bodies and minds were built for as vitamin D deficiencies (lack of sunlight), circadian rhythm disruption, and other sub-optimal states may be to blame for part of the chronic diseases that many Westerners face.

Spending time outdoors in nature not only can reduce the risk for chronic disease, but also has been shown to have a ton of benefits for optimizing the body and mind.

Here are a few of the benefits that being in nature can provide:

Stress Reduction:

In a time where social media, television, and social isolation is becoming standard, stress-related disorders are at an all time high. Being outdoors in nature is the default setting in which we as humans were made for. Being in a natural environment has a calming effect on the mind and body, while movement and exercise has been shown to be a strong stress-reduction technique as well. Feeling stressed or anxious? Put the electronic device down and go for a daily 15 minute walk in a natural environment.

Improves Immune Function:

Whether it’s the vitamin D exposure, the stress reduction, or the healthy microbial exposure, spending time outside can have a potent benefit on immune system regulation.

Increases Happiness:

To go along with stress reduction, spending time in nature has also been shown to increase happiness and joy. Being present in the moment while practicing gratitude for the beauty of nature is an essential strategy for overall life happiness.

Improves Creativity:

The calming aspect of nature along with movement and a quiet environment can be one of the best strategies to spark the imagination. The unique smells, colors, and sounds of the outdoors can give that extra creative boost.

Improves Circadian Rhythm:

Our bodies are meant to function on an internal clock which subconsciously tells are body how to function at certain hours throughout the day and night. Exposure to natural light is the stimulus that our bodies use to function optimally at parts of the day when energy is needed most, as well as relax at night to get the powerful regenerative sleep that we need. Being outside in nature is an excellent option that provides the stimulus of natural light and can improve circadian rhythm.

ImproveS Sleep:

Going hand-in-hand with the circadian rhythm, spending more time outdoors can lead to more restful sleep. Through the circadian regulation that being outside provides, going for a walk in the morning can be an excellent strategy to regulate circadian rhythm and ultimately improve sleep quality.

Increases Vitamin D:

Vitamin D deficiencies are extremely common in today’s society. Our bodies make vitamin D from sunlight and need it to function optimally. Lack of vitamin D has been shown to be a risk factor for many chronic diseases while reducing cognitive function, mood, and overall health. What to do about this? Expose some skin and spend 15-20 minutes in the sun.