When is the last time you spent time in the great outdoors? Many of us know that getting outdoors is good for us, but making it happen is another story. Our lives are busy, schedules are packed, and let’s not get started with the heat waves of summer. Even if it’s not your thing, we’re providing you a little inspiration to embrace nature and get outside today! (Spoiler alert, just 17 minutes a day could make a significant difference in your physical and mental health!)
THIS MONTH, ONSITE TEAMED UP WITH OUR FRIENDS AT STYLE BLUEPRINT TO EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING OUTSIDE AND PROVIDE YOU SOME PRACTICAL WAYS TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside the article:
“Hundreds of quantitative and qualitative research studies support the absolute necessity of being outside for our overall health, yet our routines rarely take us outside for any significant amount of time,” says Megan. “In fact, it’s estimated that Americans spend 90% of their lives indoors.”
Despite research indicating the benefits of time spent outside, Megan Repass — Director of Equine and Adventure Therapy at Onsite — says Americans spend an estimated 90% of their lives indoors.
According to Megan, as little as two hours outside per week — 17 minutes a day — will help lower your blood pressure, cortisol levels, and pulse rates, reduce anxiety and negative thought patterns, and increase your creativity and overall satisfaction with life. “The good news for many of us is that research also shows that the time can be spent outdoors all at once or broken up into several shorter outings per week,” says Megan.
She also reminds us, “Being outside is different than being in nature. The challenge is to find more space to truly be in nature, an effort that requires our presence and willingness to take the time to become aware of our surroundings.”
And, for shade-seekers — incorporating the outdoors into your routine doesn’t have to mean more time in the sun. Consider sitting outside after the sun has set, and end your day by meditating or journaling. Or take your morning cup of coffee on the porch, allowing your body and mind to sync up and slow down before you rush into your day.
