We get told every day that we all need more exercise, more time outdoors, and to stop sitting for long periods of time. The problem is, even though it’s true, most people literally don’t have time to get out in the morning for a 40 minute run before work. However, there are plenty of benefits to getting outside and enjoying the sunshine, and heaps of alternatives to getting that daily dose of fresh air.
There are so many benefits of being exposed to the outdoors. When you’re cooped up in an office for hours on end, it makes you forget how much you need the air. Fresh air cleans your lungs, improves your blood pressure, strengthens your immune system and makes you happier. So why is it we are always finding ourselves inside?
Spending some time in the sun has so many benefits, it’s hard to believe. Exposure to the sun not only gives you your daily dose of vitamin D, but it also cues special areas of your retina, which triggers the release of serotonin. Sunlight helps your bones get stronger, prevents some cancers and can even heal skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
So now you know the benefits, you’re probably aching to get outside and catch some sun rays. If your schedule is too demanding, and you’re unable to walk to work or go for a bike ride, here are a few foolproof ways you can spend time outside.
Utilise Your Backyard
A great way to spend time outdoors without compromising your schedule is by relaxing in your backyard. Invest in some outdoor furniture, such as a sun lounge or set of outdoor chairs. You can sit down for half an hour, read a book, and forget that you’re improving your mood and health! Even if you just spend a few minutes outside, you will notice improvements in your overall wellbeing - win!
Have Friends Over For Brunch
Did somebody say 11am cocktails? A great way to get outside and have some fun is by having your friends over for brunch. Eat your food outside, have a laugh and enjoy the benefits of sunlight, without even knowing it. When your friends arrive, rather than going to an overpriced cafe for smashed avocado, get them to join you at your own place! You can make cocktails, sit down on your outdoor lounge set, and get reap the benefits of the fresh air.
Spend A Day At The Park
Research has found that surrounding yourself with green, such as forests and parks, can improve your mood and mental health. Spending time around lush green can also reduce sensations of pain, research has found. So if you’re stuck at home on the weekend with nothing to do, put on some comfy shoes and visit a park! You can bring a book and just sit at a park bench, enjoying and soaking up the beauty of your environment, all while benefiting your mind and body! Just don’t spend all of your time on your smartphone; try and chill as much as possible without focussing on a screen.
You don’t have to spend hours upon hours outside in order to feel the benefits of sunshine and fresh air; just spend 20 minutes in the open and you’ll feel like you’ve had 8 hours sleep. Just don’t forget to Slip! Slop! Slap! when you’re outside, there’s nothing worse than su
