We are all just so glued to our desktops, laptops, and television sets that we become more and more sedentary. In addition to less activity, we are also becoming less attached to nature. In fact, in 2008 it was observed that more than half the world’s population lived in towns and cities. As a result, the exposure to nature and biodiversity have been less and less. We recently posted an article about the importance of getting your kids outdoors and now it’s our turn, we adults, to go outside. What is the importance of outdoor activities for us?
Outdoor activities are easy and low-cost alternatives to boost your mental well-being and, if done regularly, it can also improve your fitness level and provide numerous other health benefits. Studies have actually proven that one of the best ways to improve your mental well-being is by simply spending more time outdoor.
For adults, spending more time being active outdoors can help with weight management. We can go walking at the park, biking, swimming, jogging, and any form of outdoor sport. By doing so, we burn calories and fat and in the long run, it may also help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart attack. Is going to the gym as effective as outdoor activities? Yes it is but studies show that more exposure to the sun provides us more Vitamin D which can help strengthen bones, a major advantage of doing your work-out outside.
Adults who exercise regularly not only build a stronger body but they also enhance their cognitive functions which, in turn, may help reduce acquiring Alzheimer’s disease. So if you’re in your 50’s or 60’s, do try jogging or brisk walking daily. It might not seem like it but you are also preserving your cognitive functions.
More opportunities for social interactions, which may again improve mental well-being and the sense of being one with the community. Going outside and not choosing to isolate yourself from the rest of the world will not only give you friends but also a sense of belonging in a group. In the near future, you will need some help with something and your neighbors will be glad to give out a helping hand.
So have we finally convinced you to go outside? Try it and you will notice the changes soon enough.
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