Stress is all around us, but there is also an accessible antidote: the outdoors. Experts say getting outside can have a positive impact on our mental And physical health.
“Being outdoors has many incredible benefits for us,” says general pediatrician Dr. Vanessa Slots. told CBS Minnesota station WCCO. “Many studies show that being in nature – even if we just sit under a tree every day – reduces our stress, which in turn can lower blood pressure, heart rate and body hormones. stress, like cortisol.”
In addition to helping people with anxiety and depression, Slots says studies are being done on how time spent outdoors could also benefit people with ADHD.
“It has been shown that it can even improve our memory,” she adds.
The power of nature is not a new school of thought. Doctors have known for years the benefits of spending time outdoors.
Clinical psychologist Dr Sarah Paper previously explain that sunlight is part of what makes time outside so uplifting.
“The sun seems to increase our serotonin, which makes us happier and makes us feel more connected, not only to the people around us who are also outside, that’s a big part, but also connected to the greater universe,” she said, adding that she recommends spending at least two hours a week in nature.
To maximize the calming effect of nature, Slot suggests breathing fresh air and focusing on the sights and sounds around you.
You also don’t need to live near a beautiful mountainside or other spectacular landscape to feel its effects.
“Even a pretty dandelion,” says Paper. “If you can admire the beauty of this place, and not just see it as a weed, it helps us and trains our brains to not seek out the negative or upsetting things, but instead to seek out the beauty in the world around us. And that also gives us hope.
Neuropsychologist Dr. Rita Eichenstein told CBS Los Angeles in 2021, even a few minutes outside can quickly reduce stress levels, especially when combined with exercise.
“Research has shown that being in nature is calming,” she said. “If you have 20 minutes… take it and move your body. Walk around the block, get some fresh air, inhale, exhale…. You will be a different person and it only takes 20 minutes. “
How to Stay Safe While Enjoying the Outdoors
Although the great outdoors can improve our health, some things can also harm it, such as sun-related skin cancer and disease-carrying insects. Here are some tips to stay safe while de-stressing:
Wear sunscreen: A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a FPS of 30 or more East your best defense against the harmful rays of the sun.
Protect yourself from pests: Consider insect repellent if you plan to be outside for an extended period of time. The CDC advises using an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET or other insect repellent ingredients, listed on its website. Once back inside, do tick control and keep an eye on any areas where you suspect a bite.
Beware of extreme heat: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends trying to stay indoors with air conditioning when possible during peak summer heat. But if you plan to venture outside, experts recommend wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, staying hydrated, and going slowly to avoid problems like heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
–Kirsten Mitchell contributed reporting.
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