Ready for challenge fifteen?
We had a slow start to spring in Minneapolis but the last two weeks have been gorgeous and it is starting to warm up. Being outside without a coat on and feeling the sun on my skin is something I never get tired of. It feels like it is never going to come (6 months of winter is a long time) and then all of a sudden it’s here. The plants have buds and slowly but surely the grass is a tad greener each day. There is nothing I love more than being outside and I never realized how much nature can help you heal whether physically, emotionally or spiritually until I started to really tune in.
This months challenge is to get outside. Sounds simple right? It is is! All you have to do is spend a little time each day outside either doing an activity or just sitting quietly in reflection. You can use your outside time however you please. I am going to share a few health benefits to spending time with nature as well as some ideas to get you outside more often.
5 Health Benefits To Spending Time Outside
1. Natural light can help mood and mental wellbeing. Did you ever notice how sunshine just makes you feel happy?
2. Reduced stress. Whether its the sun, the beauty of nature or the birds chirping. Being outside has a complete calming affect on our bodies.
3. Can help increase Vitamin D levels naturally. Vitamin D is critical for so many functions in the body and most people are deficient given the time the majority of the population spends indoors.
4. Helps you get better quality sleep. Exposure to natural light helps to balance your circadian rhythms which are naturally linked to the suns scheudle.
5. Allows you to have more fun. Spending time outdoors doing the things you love is going to automatically force you to have fun and having fun may be the greatest benefit of all!
5 Ideas To Get You Outside More
1. Eat as many meals as you can outside. During warm months in Minneapolis we eat outside as often as we can. It’s one of my favorite parts of spring and summer.
2. Take your workout or meditation practice outside.
3. Be social outside. Instead of meeting a friend for dinner or at bar invite them to take a long walk outside instead.
4. Plant a garden. Not only will you benefit from fresh veggies all summer long but you will have to spend time outdoors each day taking care of it.
5. Plan more outdoor weekend activities whether it’s going to the pool, zoo, camping or hiking. Do things that require you to be outside.
Ready, Set, Go…. Challenge Time
The first step is to set up your free account at Healthstorylines.com if you have not already.
Simply click here to register for your free account.
Challenge Fifteen Instructions:
1. Spend more time outdoors. Spend at least 30 min a day for the next month outside.
Let’s continue to inspire each other!
If you need any help using the Health Story Lines app check out this amazing video!
If you missed my earlier challenges you will find them here!
