According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals who spend time outdoors on a regular basis can reap a number of benefits. Not only can it bring a number of positive effects on our health and wellbeing, but spending time outside can also drastically improve your mood and overall outlook on life. Consider some of the benefits being outdoors can bring.
Just a few minutes a day of direct sunlight exposure is enough to fulfill your daily requirements of vitamin D. Unfortunately, the body doesn't store excessive amounts of this important vitamin, so spending regular time outdoors is one of the best ways to ensure your body is getting the amount it needs. Vitamin D helps fight osteoporosis and cancer and can reduce the effects of depression.
More time outdoors means less time spent in front of the television. By staying active, seniors may experience a reduction in muscle mass loss and can support their heart and lung health. Keeping the body in motion can often reduce the symptoms of arthritis and other diseases, and it provides an immune system boost, which makes it easier to fight off colds and the flu.
Participation in outdoor activities like biking, hiking and sightseeing has been linked to lower risks of mental health problems. Spending time in nature can bring about an increase in overall feelings of happiness, which can improve movement and reduce negative thoughts.
Spending time outdoors is a perfect way to expend some energy. As a result, you'll sleep better and think clearly. Studies have shown that children with ADHD tend to function better after spending time outdoors. One can assume the same would be true for individuals of all ages.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, seniors recovering from spinal surgery felt less pain than those who stayed indoors and took fewer pain medications. In some instances, patients in medical facilities who had a window with a view in their rooms also recovered much quicker than those who did not. This indicates that those who have direct contact with the outdoors tend to have a healthier attitude on healing than those who didn't.
God speaks His love, power and majesty through everything he has made. One way to get closer to him is by simply being outdoors to take a walk with him. At the Bethesda Gardens assisted living community in Monument, CO, you can find well-manicured grounds and plenty of space to spend time outdoors.
"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" Psalm 8:3-4.
Ref:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/spending-time-outdoors-is-good-for-you
