Healing in the Outdoors.

 Think about the last time you were outside.

Why were you outside?

How did it feel?

What did you feel?

Now imagine what it was like for our ancestors. Before there were indoor spaces and technologies.

What would that feel like?

What would you be doing differently?

What might benefits of experiencing that outdoor time be?

You might even close your eyes as you reflect on these questions.

More and more research is being done on the benefits of removing ourselves - from our devices, our to do lists, our indoor oasis, whatever it might be that is keeping us indoors – and getting outside to embrace our natural, genetic habitat.

Here is what research is finding:

1.     Vitamin D – Our bodies use vitamin D to help with intestinal absorption of calcium and regulation of calcium and phosphate in the blood. This promotes the proper mineralization of nutrients in the bone protecting against osteoporosis - a condition we grow more and more susceptible to as we age, particularly in women. It’s recommended to get sun exposure 3-5 times per week for about half the amount of time it takes to turn your skin pink. Full-body exposure to the midday summer sun equals 10,000 IU of vitamin D in half the time it takes the skin to turn pink.

2.     Stress relief – Finding an environment that offers fresh air, can increase our oxygen uptake which increases the release of serotonin in the brain. The release of serotonin cues the brain and body to relax, in turn reducing the fight or flight response many of us are stuck in.

3.     Heart health – The outdoors for most of us brings movement – yard games, hikes, walks, runs, yoga. This movement in combination with the vitamin D promotes circulation, decreased inflammation, and overall improved cardiovascular health. Pretty cool, right? J

4.     Socialization – When you imagined your last outside experience above, were you with anyone else? It is not a guarantee, but often when we spend time in nature we’re experiencing it with someone else. A recent study found social isolation is more detrimental to our health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. There is a time and place for quiet and self-reflection. Be sure to frequently check in with yourself to fill your cup with alone time and deep engagement with others!

5.     Connection – or disconnection – For me, nature brings a time to connect spiritually. It helps me learn to listen to my inner voice. It allows a time for quiet prayer and appreciation of this beautiful world. It is a time I turn my phone off, disconnect my devices and find inner and outer peace.

How are you going to engage with the outdoors today? This week? What might be different for you next time?

See how Journey Well takes on the outdoors in our upcoming events. We would love to have you join!