The Value of Outdoor Exercise for Mental Health
Our mental and physical health are intertwined, so when one feels poorly, the other usually follows. While for many dealing with mental health conditions, the best treatments are a form of therapy and medication, lifestyle changes can also augment your mental wellness.
Ahead, discover the value of outdoor exercise for mental health, learning ways you can improve your body and your mind.
A Good Opportunity for Online Disconnection
The connection between social media and mental health is well established, with regular usage leading to greater anxiety, negative self-esteem, and more feelings of isolation. Plus, too much social media use can get in the way of other aspects of our lives, including face-to-face connections and even our sleep.
When you go outside for an exercise session, whether it’s yoga in the park or a run through your neighborhood, you can put your phone in your back pocket (or better yet, leave it at home) and simply enjoy. Listen to the chirping birds or the rustling of leaves in the wind; appreciate the feeling of the sunlight on your skin. You’ll soon find that you’ve forgotten about all those social media notifications you haven’t checked.
Social Connection Opportunities Aplenty
Exercising outdoors also presents more chances to connect with people, whether it’s your neighbors or new faces in your community. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social connections have many benefits, from improved stress management to reduced risk of dementia, depression, and anxiety.
You don’t always have to stop for a full conversation, either. A smile, a wave, and even a short exchange of pleasantries is still a good way to bolster social connections that ultimately benefit your health.
Vitamin D Exposure for a Better Mood
The value of outdoor exercise for mental health includes elevating your mood naturally. Whenever you lace up your shoes and step outside, exposure to sunlight imbues your body with vitamin D. You only need to spend between 15 and 30 minutes outdoors to reap the benefits of this vitamin, which include better mood and a healthier immune system.
However, since sun exposure is always a risk when spending time outdoors, even when it’s cloudy, you should wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and reapply as needed.
By setting aside regular time for outdoor activities in fresh air and natural light, even if it’s just a few minutes each day, you can initiate powerful improvements in mood, social connection, and resilience.