What perfect weather we have been having! Fall is such a beautiful time of year! A perfect time to take time to enjoy nature and the outdoors.
This weekend as I was mulching up leaves in the yard I noticed how gorgeous our ornamental pear trees had become in the past week. Oftentimes they turn shades of purple in the fall, but this year the leaves range in colors from gold to bright red. The bright blue sky provided a wonderful contrasting background.
Being outdoors makes us feel better and according to Harvard Medical School, spending time outdoors is good for you.
Their research identifies five good reasons to get outdoors. Number one is that your vitamin D levels rise, which helps fight certain conditions from osteoporosis and cancer to depression and heart attacks.
Number two is that you will get more exercise – less time in front of the TV and computer and more time walking and doing other things that put the body in motion.
You will be happier is the number three reason. Light tends to elevate people’s mood, and there is usually more light available outside than in. Physical activity has been shown to help people relax and cheer up, so can mean more smiles!
Number four reason is that your concentration will improve. Children with ADHD seem to focus better after being outdoors, and outdoor activity may also help adults concentrate better.
The last reason is that you may heal faster. One study showed that people recovering from surgery experienced less pain and stress and took fewer pain medications when they were exposed to natural light.
Make it a goal to spend at least 20 minutes a day outside – walking, relaxing, playing and just enjoying all the beauty around you. Enjoy the fall colors and the cooler temperatures. Take time to really look at the leaves and take time to smell the last few roses in your garden. Soak up the sun and smile!
“Fall has always been my favorite season. The time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale.”
– Lauren Destefano
Resource: Harvard Health Publishing, Spending Time Outdoors is Good for You.
