5 reasons why we’re spending more time outside
Picture this… You wake up to birdsong in the countryside. Or would you prefer salty, crisp ocean air? Either way, all 6 of our Retirement Villages are located so our residents have easy and regular access to Mother Nature.
5 health benefits of natural environments
1. Help to calm the mind
Being outside has been scientifically proven to ease mental health issues. Studies found that time spent in green environments can improve self-esteem, anxiety, depression and bad moods. One reason for this could be the effect relaxing nature sounds (like waterfalls) have on our cortisol levels.
Tip: Go for a walk in the forest or on the beach to find peace and mental clarity.
2. Strengthen immunity
Science suggests that heading for the trees has healing properties. It all comes down to how plants and the sun contribute towards our health. Plants produce chemicals called phytoncides. Breathing in these chemicals increases our levels of white blood cells, which in turn help us to fight off infections and viruses. In much the same way, the sun is responsible for producing Vitamin D. Getting Vitamin D helps us to absorb calcium, which in turn keeps our immune system healthy.
Tip: Boost your immunity by taking up gardening!
3. Support eye health
Let’s face it. We spend a lot of time looking at a screen, whether it belongs to a computer, a phone or a TV. All that screen time quickly adds up to hours upon hours a day of artificial light. The good news is, the more time you spend outside, the less likely you are to be nearsighted. Too much screen time can also lead to fatigue, headaches, and a whole host of other vision-related problems.
Tip: Give your eyes a break and try to read or write outside for at least 30 minutes a day.
4. Maintain our circadian rhythm
Our circadian rhythm is what helps to regulate our sleep patterns. Outside factors like lightness and darkness send signals to our brains, impacting our sleep/wake cycles. That’s why exposure to sunlight in the morning and a dark sleep environment are so important.
Tip: Start by routinely incorporating natural sunlight into your mornings.
5. Restore mental energy
Suffering from brain fog, writer’s block or just feel stumped? Treat yourself to a walk in nature! Wide, open spaces are scientifically proven to boost creativity and concentration. The same applies to short-term memory.
Tip: Next time your mind starts to wander, get it back into gear with a walk outside and a breath of fresh air.
Nestled in the mountains or neighboring the sea… Where do you imagine yourself retiring? Either way, we encourage you to stop and smell the daisies!