Time Outside Can Boost Your Mental Health

Image courtesy Eddie O’Leary.

Teens to Trails started the same year that Last Child in the Woods, the influential book by Richard Louv, was published. The book explores the increasing divide between young people and the natural world, along with the environmental, social, psychological and spiritual implications that come with that division. Concerned about these disconnections, our founders trademarked the phrase, Life Happens Outside®. This belief is behind everything we do at Teens to Trails.

This month, as the nation focuses on Mental Health Awareness, our thoughts continue to turn to the positive power of the outdoors on our minds and bodies. Life really does happen outside! Here are 8 reasons why spending time outdoors can make a difference:

1. Every Body Loves the Sunshine
   Basking in the sun is your body's way of making essential vitamin D. From boosting bone health to keeping your mood merry, soaking up rays (with a little sunscreen) can ward off a host of health issues.

2. Unwind Your Mind
   Step into the great outdoors and let Mother Nature work her magic! Studies show that even a quick jaunt in green spaces can melt away stress, anxiety, and moody blues to effectively boost mental health.  

3. Get Your Body Moving
   Nature is a vast playground, and regular physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. Whether you're hiking, biking or exploring, outdoor activities offer a boost for your health. 

4. Give Your Brain a Boost
   Being in nature has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better concentration and creativity. By taking a break outside, taking on a big project or preparing for a test suddenly seems more doable.

5. Create Community
   Outdoor activities provide an easy way to come together, laugh, and create unforgettable memories with people. Socializing outdoors fosters a sense of belonging and connection, which is vital for mental and emotional well-being.

6. Kick Germs to the Curb
   Spending time in nature gives your immune system a boost. Research suggests that exploring natural environments exposes your body to a smorgasbord of microbes, which can positively effect the immune system and reduce the risk of autoimmune disorders and allergies.

7. Sweet Dreams are Made of This
   Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep quality. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours can improve sleep patterns, so you wake up feeling rested and at ease.

8. Show Your Love
   Spending time in nature fosters a deep appreciation for the environment, inspiring eco-friendly habits and a passion for conservation. One outdoor adventure at a time helps people come together to protect our planet.
   

To learn more about how time outside can improve mental and physical health, visit our home page.