While Sheryl Crow’s song Soak up the Sun may be a metaphor for remaining optimistic, the idea can also be taken literally to maintain a healthy mind. Several studies have suggested a positive relationship between the amount of time spent outside and the improvement of mood. With the start of fall right around the corner, it’s important to get outside and take advantage of the sun before living up North gets the best of us.
According to Dr. Wayne Jonas, author for Psychology Today, there are physical benefits to spending time outside. One biological impact getting some fresh air has is increasing cortisol levels in the brain. Cortisol is a type of glucocorticoid released from the adrenal glands that bind to serotonin receptors in the brain, inducing an elevation in mood. Additionally, besides when exercising, introducing yourself to a natural environment has shown to decrease heart rate, increasing cardiovascular efficiency. The trees also contribute to our health as they release phytoncides. These chemicals have antibacterial properties that induce production and activity level of white blood cells in the human body when inhaled. This helps to strengthen our immune system. Another biological reason to be outside is that doing so can boost natural killer cells in the body, which are cytotoxic towards infection and cancer cells.
Studies have also shown mental benefits to immersing yourself in the outdoors. The article also explains that obtaining vitamin D from the sun is associated with mood disorder improvement as well as illness prevention. In addition, being outside can improve our mental health as it allows us to be more social during a time in which COVID has limited our social interaction, having the ability to increase happiness. Taking some time to spend outdoors has also been shown to reduce stress and anger, improve self-esteem, and help one be more active.
While the benefits of being outside are numerous, it may be difficult to find the motivation to get going. One fun and easy way to get outside is to explore a nearby park. Whether taking a walk along a body of water or going into the woods on a trail, Upstate New York is full of picturesque scenery that can often be taken for granted. Another good way to get outside is by spending five minutes every morning, perhaps while drinking coffee, sitting in a chair and taking in the fresh air. Gardening can be another great activity to not only help the environment, but also get you to spend some time outside each day.
With plenty of possible activities, spending time outside should be incorporated into your everyday life. As the bitter cold of Upstate New York approaches, it’s important to take advantage of the great outdoors for both your mental and physical health.