The Benefits of Spending Time in Nature for Your Physical & Mental Health

This is an update of a blog originally posted on 4/12/23

Spring is in the air, and it’s time to get outside. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining and the flowers are blooming. But did you know that spending time outside had health benefits?

There is plenty of research that shows that spending time in natural environments can improve mood, reduce stress levels, boost creativity, and even enhance physical fitness. At Ease Wellness, our mission is to Cultivate True Health, and in this post, we'll explore six ways spending time in nature helps to do just that.

1. Spending Time in Nature Improves Mental Health:

   Mental health is as important as physical health, we know how connected they are. Being in nature has a calming effect on the mind and studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can lead to decreased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation.

2. Being in Nature Increases Physical Fitness:

   Being in nature provides ample opportunities for physical activity. Hiking, biking, swimming, and other outdoor activities can improve cardiovascular health, increase endurance, and build strength. BONUS: outdoor exercise tends to feel less strenuous than indoor exercise, which can lead to longer, more enjoyable workouts.

3. Being in Nature Supports Your Immune System:

   Studies have shown that spending time in nature can boost the immune system. Trees and plants release chemicals called phytoncides, which have been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, which are critical for fighting off infections and diseases.

4. Spending Time in Nature Increases Creativity:

   Need some creative inspiration? Try a walk outside. Exposure to natural environments has been linked to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain associated with creative thinking.

5. Being in Nature Can Reduce Symptoms of ADHD:

   Spending time in nature can be particularly beneficial for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Studies have shown that outdoor play and exposure to natural environments can improve attention span and reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.

6. Spending Time in Nature Supports Better Sleep:

   Exposure to natural light during the day and darkness at night can help regulate the body's circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep. In addition, the calming effects of nature can promote relaxation and make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

There you have it. Six solid reasons to get outside and spend some time in nature. So next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, try taking a break and spending some outside and see if you feel better. And if your body is in need of some spring self-care, click here to book an appointment at one of our convenient Ease Wellness locations.