The benefits of nature

When was the last time you went for a walk or just sat outside? If you’re not getting outside regularly, you could be missing out; breathing in fresh air and getting enough Vitamin D will help keep you healthy and make you feel great. Many people who work indoors all day during the week may notice that by Friday they’re not feeling so well and have little energy, and studies have found that time outdoors can lower the risk of depression. 

The benefits of sunlight

Everyone needs some exposure to sunlight in order to be healthy. While it’s important not to overdo it, spending some time in the sun tells your body to make Vitamin D. Your body uses Vitamin D to process important minerals like calcium and phosphorous, and it's essential for healthy bones. Sunlight also promotes the production of melatonin, the hormone that sets your body’s internal clock and helps you sleep. There are other ways to get Vitamin D, such as through your diet, but the best way to get enough is to head outdoors.

The amount of sunlight you need will vary from person to person, though a general recommendation is often 20 minutes a day. As a guide, the fairer your skin, the more efficient it is at making Vitamin D, meaning you won’t need much sun to get your fix. Those with darker skin will need to spend a bit more time in the sun to get enough Vitamin D. But always remember too much sun is harmful for your skin and your body. You should still aim to stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen during the hottest part of the day, and definitely avoid getting burnt.

Making time for nature

The biggest excuse people give for not spending enough time outside is that they’re too busy. Modern life is often hectic, but there are ways to make time to get back to nature.

Even if you just go outside and sit in your back yard or on your deck, you will start to feel the benefits of nature and spending time outdoors, but you may as well boost your health further by getting moving at the same time. Go for a walk on your lunch break. Carve out time for an outdoor exercise class or walk or ride your bike to work a few times each week.

Another trick is to drink your morning coffee outdoors. Exposing yourself to natural light in the morning helps you wake up and tells your body it's daytime, helping to improve your quality of sleep by working with nature's natural rhythms. To get more natural light during the day, you can also eat lunch outside or read a book in the park.