Tired of your mundane workout routine?
Looking to spice things up and add some extra happiness to your life? Switching to outdoor exercise and immersing yourself in nature might be just the thing you need!
In this piece, we’ll explore the joys of combining physical activity with the great outdoors, and how it can improve both your physical and mental health.
What exactly is outdoor exercise and nature therapy?
Outdoor exercise is just getting active outside, like jogging, hiking, or playing sports.
And nature therapy?
It’s all about soaking up the great outdoors to boost mental and emotional happiness. This can include things like hiking, gardening, or just lounging in a park or green space.
What’s so great about outdoor exercise and nature therapy?
Oh boy, where do I even begin? The benefits of outdoor exercise are like winning the lottery for your physique!
Not only will your body feel like a million bucks, but your mind will also thank you.
Here are a couple of reasons why:
#1 Happy-Go-Lucky
If you’re feeling down in the dumps, there’s nothing like a little bit of nature therapy to give your spirits a boost.
Just breathe in that fresh air, soak up some sun, and bask in all that greenery.
Before you know it, you’ll be feeling so chilled and carefree that you’ll wonder why you were ever worried in the first place!
#2 Broke and Beautiful
This one is for all the penny-pinchers!
If you’re looking to save some cash but still want to stay fit and get your nature fix, then outdoor exercise is the way to go.
Why shell out a small fortune for a fancy gym or training gear when the great outdoors is totally free?
With outdoor exercise, you can get all the benefits of physical activity and nature therapy without having to worry about your wallet.
All you need is a bit of motivation and a love for the outdoors, and you’re good to go! So get outside and start exploring all the wonders of nature.
#3 Air Supply
Exercising outdoors is like taking a breath of fresh air, literally!
By getting your fitness on in nature, you can avoid the stale, recycled air of indoor gyms and breathe in the good stuff.
Plus, according to my personal experience as someone with allergies to basically everything, working out outside is like a magical cure for my sniffles and itchy eyes.
No more tissue boxes and antihistamines, just me, the great outdoors, and some awesome workouts!
#4 Chill Pill
Research shows that spending time in nature can help lower cortisol levels and relieve stress symptoms, making you feel calmer and more relaxed.
By taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connecting with nature, you can give your mind a much-needed break to recharge and reset.
The peaceful environment and fresh air can do wonders to help you feel less anxious and more relaxed.
But don’t just take our word for it!
Let me tell you about my personal experience.
Even a short hike in a nature reserve or a leisurely stroll in a serene park can work wonders on my stress levels after a long day.
It’s like the perfect stress-busting combo of physical activity and peaceful surroundings.
So, if you’re feeling like you’re about to lose your cool, why not give nature therapy a try? Your mind (and your sanity) will thank you for it!
#5 Brain Hacks for Slackers
Are you having trouble staying focused and on-task?
Well, fear not, because nature therapy is here to give your brain the boost it needs!
According to science, spending time in nature can work like a magical potion for your attention and concentration, especially if you’re someone who tends to get easily distracted.
So, go ahead and get your nature fix!
Whether it’s a hike in the mountains or a leisurely stroll through a park, immersing yourself in nature can help clear your mind and give you the mental clarity you need to power through your to-do list.
#6 Work It, Baby!
Want to take your productivity to the next level? Going green with your workout might just do the trick!
According to science, outdoor exercise can work wonders in improving your brain function and cognitive abilities, giving you that extra edge to crush it at work.
But wait, there’s more!
Let me share with you my personal experience.
As a personal trainer and member of the workaholic squad, I can say for sure that exercise outside makes you more productive.
Whenever I hit the great outdoors for a workout, I’m filled with an insane amount of energy, focus, and motivation to tackle any task that comes my way!
#7 Blood Pressure: The Cool Down
Nature therapy isn’t just good for the soul; it’s good for the heart too! Studies show that physical activity in nature can reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.
So kick back, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors.
What kinds of activities are involved in nature therapy?
Nature therapy is all about getting down with Mother Nature and improving your mental and emotional well-being.
Activities like hiking, birdwatching, fishing, picnicking, gardening, or just chillaxing in a park or green space are all part of the fun.
Can you get your nature fix in the concrete jungle?
Absolutely!
Urban environments offer plenty of opportunities for nature therapy, like visiting a local park, gardening in a community garden, or simply taking a stroll in a green space.
The goal is to connect with the environment and nature in a way that improves your well-being.
So why not skip those weights in your home gym for one day, and give mother nature a try?
Let’s wrap this up, folks!
All in all, nature therapy and outdoor exercise are a winning combination for both your body and your mind.
Whether you prefer hiking, birdwatching, gardening, or just taking it easy in a park, nature has the power to enhance your health and well-being.
So grab your hiking boots, plant some flowers, or just take a walk, and let nature do the rest!
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CREDITS:
Evander Nelson
Founder at evandernelson.com
Headshot: picture
Email: evander@evandernelson.com
Evander is a kickboxer and NASM-certified personal trainer. With over 10 years of experience, Evander has dedicated himself to helping those around him become the best versions of themselves.
