The Power of Fresh Air & Sunshine

The smell of fresh cut grass, the white sunshine glistening on your face* and the sound of the birds ringing in your ears. Maybe even some sand in between your toes, and salt in your hair. 
What doesn't sound great about that? Aside from the picturesque world we live in and get to explore, being outside in the fresh air has some amazing health benefits. 
With the COVID-19 restrictions easing in Australia, it's important that we get back to enjoying life outdoors. Take a read on how some fresh air can help you. 



*Should always wear sunscreen when doing outside. 

Australia is blessed with natural beauty, and a lot of it! And with our COVID-19 restrictions easing, we can go out an enjoy them again. Everyone knows that spending too much time inside isn't good for us. In fact, after our quarantine, I'm sure most people will be glad to get out of the house. 
Take your friends on a hike, or visit the beach or a park, walk in the forest or swim in the river. The benefits of enjoying nature are bountiful, and not only psychological. 

Anti-Inflammatory 
Inflammation is associated with a variety of problems including bowel diseases, autoimmune conditions, pain, and swelling. There are multiple studies indicating that people who spend more time outdoors have significantly lower levels of inflammation. 
Anti-Hypertensive 
There are a lot of studies out there showing that spending time outdoors lowers your blood pressure, therefore also lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease and strokes. So why not skip that gym session for a jog outside? 
Protect your Vision
Wearing glasses is fairly common these days, I'm sure most people reading this are probably wearing them (I know I'm wearing glasses typing this!). Taking your kids, and spending time with them outside can prevent them from getting myopia (nearsightedness). 
Immunity Boost
Spending time outside increases your levels of Vitamin D and vitamin D has an important role in immunity.
Not only that, but plants produce organic compounds called phytoncides into the air which are shown to increase the functions of the immune system. 
Improves your Sleep
Sunlight is vitally important to maintain your internal body clock (circadian rhythm). Studies recommend sunlight early in the morning to get the best possible sleep at night. 
Cancer...
Preliminary studies from Japan show that 'forest bathing' or 'shinrik-yoku' is a powerful preventative medicine. The most recent studied showed that people from areas with greater forest coverage have lower mortality rates from cancer. 

Nature in an infinite sphere of which the centre is everywhere and the circumference is nowhere. 
-Blaise Pascal

De-stressing
Being outdoors changes the physical expression of stress in the body. Studies have shown that being outside decreases cortisol levels - a hormone used as a marker for stress. 
Fight Depression & Anxiety
Being outside in nature is a powerful mood booster, especially when combined with exercise. Some therapists are even recommending it as part of a treatment plan for mental health issues. 
Improved Focus & Creativity
Being outside relaxes us, especially going for a walk outside. A recent study compared people who went for walks around a city, and walks through nature. This study showed us that people who were outside in nature had significantly more focus and creative ideas compared to those who went for a walk through a city. 

So take some time today, and go for a nice relaxing walk. 
​Stay Safe.