June is Great Outdoors Month — a nationally recognized celebration of America’s public lands and waters and the many ways to enjoy them. Warmer temperatures and sunny days make June the perfect time to experience beautiful natural spaces. This could mean walking or running outside, but it could also look like participating in outside activities such as tennis, scavenger hunts, frisbee, wiffleball, kickball, canoeing, camping or biking. The possibilities are endless!
There are countless benefits to spending time outside:
- Nature can decrease anxiety, stress and feelings of anger
- Regular access to green spaces has been linked to lower risks of depression, better sleep and improved concentration
- Fresh air boosts your mood, lowers your heart rate and increases energy levels
- Being in the sun helps your body obtain vitamin D, which is important for your bones, blood cells and immune system
The importance of being outdoors is recognized around the world. For example, the term forest bathing emerged in Japan in the 1980s as a cure to tech-boom burnout and to increase connection with and protection of the nation’s forests. In Japanese, shinrin-yoku means “bathing in the forest atmosphere” or “taking in the forest through your senses.”
You don’t need to be outdoorsy to practice forest bathing. A few activities you can try are walking, yoga, meditation, picnics, tai chi, gardening and painting — just find a place to do these activities outside! Using your senses and being present are important to making the most out of your time in nature. Concentrate on listening, smelling, watching and feeling the details you may miss when you’re moving too quickly. Slow down, and immerse yourself in your surroundings. Take time to let the stillness and peace around you influence your state of mind.
It doesn’t matter what your level of fitness is; being outdoors is good for everybody. Even a small amount of time in nature will positively impact your health. Celebrate Great Outdoors Month and head outside for some fresh air!
by Caitlin Kemmerer
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