Posts

Have Fun in the Sun

It’s that time of year when school is let out, there are celebrations galore, and vacations are planned. One of the best parts of summer is the ability to spend more time outdoors.. June celebrates National Great Outdoors Month.  Exploring the great outdoors is not only a great learning experience where you can discover different aspects of nature across the country, but it also presents benefits physically, and emotionally.

We constantly implore people to engage in physical activities. Part of the wonder with venturing into natural surroundings, is that can be enjoyable for all people. Men and women of all ages are sure to find something they gravitate towards during these adventures, and that’s a bonus to the existing physical, social, emotional, and intellectual benefits that ensue. HealthyLiving and LiveStrong highlighted these four benefits:

  1. Physical Benefits
    • Lower blood pressure
    • Reduced arthritic pain
    • Weight loss
    • Lowered risk of: diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases
    • Fulfills the CDC recommendation of 75 minutes of intense activity per week
  1. Social Benefits
    • Provides children and adults opportunities to socialize and develop new relationships with others
    • Social settings of outdoor spaces are often associated with positive experiences
    • Introduced to like-minded people who share passion for outdoor recreation 
  1. Emotional Benefits
    • Helps reduce stress and may prevent cases of depression
    • Leads to a better, deeper sleep, which may result in better concentration 
  1. Intellectual Benefits
    • Increased confidence, creativity, and better self-esteem
    • Nature settings rejuvenate and bring peace to the mind, improves outlook and increases positivity

There are also a few scientific factors that may lead to spending more time exploring the great outdoors. Business Insider shared some great content on how the outdoors boosts your mental and physical well-being:

  • Improved short term memory
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Better vision (especially for children)
  • Immune system boost
  • Reduced risk of early death 

Whether you’re out kayaking with family and friends, or exploring a new hiking trail, it’s great to explore the outdoors and take in all the beauty and health benefits it encompasses. As always, whenever you plan on engaging in vigorous activity, it’s good to reach out to your R-Health doctor to make sure your body is healthy and suitable for the added outdoor activity.