5 Reasons to Go Outside

As we approach the weekend, let's explore five remarkable health benefits of spending time outdoors, backed by scientific research. Nature offers a powerful remedy for many of our modern ailments, and incorporating outdoor activities into your routine can significantly boost your overall well-being.

The thing is, you inherently know this. You know that when you go outside you feel better. Here’s a bit of science to “push you out the door” so to speak.

Reason #1 Stress Reduction and Mental Clarity

Stepping into nature can be a balm for your mind. Research published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that spending just 20-30 minutes outdoors can markedly lower cortisol levels, our primary stress hormone. The natural environment provides a respite from the constant stimulation of our digital world, allowing your mind to reset and recharge.

Article: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00722/full

Reason #2 Improved Physical Health

Outdoor activities naturally encourage movement, which is crucial for maintaining good health. A systematic review in Frontiers in Psychology found that time in nature is linked to decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and sympathetic nervous system activity. Whether it's a brisk walk or a gentle stroll, outdoor exercise can yield greater benefits than the same activity performed indoors.

Article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9544808/

Reason #3 Enhanced Sleep Quality

Exposure to natural light, particularly in the morning, helps regulate your body's internal clock. A study in the Journal of Affective Disorders revealed that greater time spent in outdoor light was associated with better sleep outcomes and ease of wakening. By aligning your circadian rhythm with the natural day-night cycle, you're setting yourself up for more restful nights.

Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34488088/

Reason #4 Boosted Immune Function

Time spent outdoors can strengthen your body's defences. A review in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicated that exposure to nature has positive effects on immunological parameters, including anti-inflammatory effects and increased Natural Killer (NK) cell activity.

Article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7913501/

Reason #5 Increased Happiness and Self-esteem

Nature has a profound effect on our mood and self-perception. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology found a small but significant positive relationship between nature connectedness and happiness, including positive affect, vitality, and life satisfaction. Even brief encounters with nature can lift your spirits and boost your self-esteem.

Article: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00976/full

This weekend, why not challenge yourself to spend more time outdoors? Whether it's a park visit, a nature walk, or simply sitting in your garden, every moment in nature is an investment in your health. Remember, you don't need to venture far to experience the benefits – even urban green spaces can provide these health-boosting effects.

Try not to limit your time outside to just the weekends. Incorporate some time outside during the week. Go for a walk at lunchtime. You can park the car a lock away from your work and walk there and back. Meet a friend in the park and grab a takeaway coffee instead of sitting in the coffee shop. Our favourite- if you have a dog, play with him outside.

Grabbing little outside bursts ( we call them snacks ) is entirely achievable. Remember the power of small steps

You will feel so much better and isn't that what we want in life…to feel better!

With love and great health

Dr Lucy and Dr Mary XX

Dr Mary Barson and Dr Lucy are the founders of Real Life Medicine. They help women who have been on every diet under the sun, optimise their health and achieve long lasting weight loss without feeling miserable or deprived.

They do this with their 3 step framework that

• Improves metabolism
• Develops mindset skills
• Provides tools to implement it easily into busy lives

With this comes increased energy, vitality and confidence.

You can avoid chronic disease and stop living life on the sidelines!