Go Outside! 5 Mental Health & Wellness Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors
As students navigate long days of Zoom classes, remote work, and speaking to friends and family virtually, it can be so easy to stay stuck in routine — and stuck indoors. We’ve all heard about the negative effects the pandemic and ongoing lockdowns are having on our mental health and wellbeing. When you’re in lockdown, it’s essential to follow public health guidelines, but that doesn’t mean you have to be locked in your home! There is no quick fix, but there are proven physical and mental health benefits to spending time outside. As spring begins to creep in, here are some reasons to take advantage of the warmer weather and spend some time outdoors.
- Exercise — or not!
Going outside makes you more likely to exercise, and staying active has it’s own set of physical and mental health benefits. But even just being outside, soaking up the sunlight and breathing in the fresh air, has positive benetfits! Only 5 to 15 minutes of direct sunlight exposure 2 or 3 times per week will help increase your Vitamin D levels. Those with Seasonal Affective Disorder will also benefit from light exposure and time spent outdoors, even if it’s overcast. So even if you don’t move around, your body will reap the benefits of the great outdoors.
2. Soothe your Anxiety and Stress
Zoom university comes with its fair share of daily anxiety and stress. Many studies have shown how spending time outside can postively impact your mental health, and decrease anxiety, depression, anger, and stress by lowering our cortisol and adrenaline levels. Nature’s effects are so strong that even photos of outdoor landscapes or keeping plants in your room can relieve your stress!
3. Stay Focused
Staying concentrated on the endless list of tasks that must be accomplished on a computer is no easy feat. Some studies have looked into the benefits of nature for those with ADHD, and found that spending time outdoors helped improve concentration. Changing your surroundings might be worth a try if your attention keeps drifting.
4. Get Creative
For students in a creative program or those with an artistic hobby, going outside has been proven to jumpstart your creativity and get your ideas flowing. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can improve your ability to solve creative problems. So next time you’re faced with writer’s block, some fresh air and a change of scenery may be just what you need!
5. Boost Your Mood
If you need a pick-me-up in between Zoom calls or heavy assignments, being outside is bound to boost your mood overall. Sunlight boosts our serotonin levels, which helps regulate our moods. One study found that 20 minutes spent outdoors gives us the same boost of energy that a cup of coffee would!
There are many other benefits to spending time outdoors. If you’re still reluctant to step into the sun, remember that spending time outdoors can look different for everyone! You don’t have to venture into a forest or go on a super strenuous run. You can start small, by opening a window, spending a few minutes on your balcony or in your yard, or going for a walk around the block. Whether it’s frisbee, fishing, or playing fetch with your dog, the key is finding an outdoor activity that excites and energizes you.
By: Annemarie Cutruzzola
