With spring right around the corner, we thought we would shoot you a quick reminder that being outside isn’t just fun and games, it’s actually really good for your brain too! Let’s take a peek at just a few of the reasons why you should be heading outdoors this spring.
(image via: adobe stock)
Bring Outside > Coffee
Okay, now that we have your attention, we can explain. We love coffee as much as the next person, probably more, but studies have shown that spending just 20 minutes outside can actually give you just as much energy as your next cup of coffee, so maybe let’s rethink that coffee run on our lunch break and instead just get outside!
Kick Sickness to the Curb
Scientists have discovered that breathing in airborne chemicals that are produced by plants actually increases your white blood cell count, and those little guys are the ones that ward off infections and diseases.
Stop and Smell the Roses. And Grass. And Pinecones.
No, seriously. Studies tell us that smelling nature smells such as fresh-cut grass, flowers, pinecones, and more can actually aid in stress reduction, so the next time you’re out, stop and smell the roses.
Nature Tells Us: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Scientists have found that those who spend an adequate amount of time outdoors versus those that don’t tend to shrug things off more easily and keep the bigger picture things such as friendship and community in perspective.
(image via: wallpaper better)
Keep it in Focus
If you find yourself having trouble focusing throughout the day, take five, but outdoors. Studies have shown that stepping away from our surroundings to get some sun and fresh air can restore our focus throughout the day.
So Long, Seasonal Affective Disorder!
If you or someone you know suffers from seasonal affective disorder, then you know how long winter days can feel, but doctors are telling us that even if it’s gray, cool, and cloudy outside getting outdoors can actually lessen the severity of our symptoms, and we are all about that.
Easy Exercising
Have you ever taken your exercise routine outside on a beautiful day and thought to yourself, ‘wow, that workout actually felt easy!’ You aren’t crazy, this is actually a thing that happens. Remember how we mentioned being outside can give you a bit of an energy boost? This will make your outdoor workouts feel a little easier than they typically would indoors.