Outdoor Activities That Are Great For Your Mental Health
Exercise is extremely beneficial for your overall health. It aids in weight management, helps to reduce body fat, and increases lean muscle mass. Any form of exercise can improve the function of your cardiovascular system, muscular strength, and bone health. It can also cause the production of endorphins and happy hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for feeling great.
Some of you may love going to the gym and lifting weights or running on a treadmill. Or maybe you enjoy doing gym classes or swimming in the indoor pool. However, for an extra dose of “feeling good'' try taking your exercise outdoors sometimes. Studies indicate that spending time in nature has the potential to improve our mood and is associated with better mental health.
Here are some ideas for your next workout in fresh air and sunshine.
Yoga
Yoga is a great form of exercise to increase muscular strength, balance, and performance. It is also amazing for your mental health and can improve your sense of self-awareness. It brings you back to the present moment and enables you to be in sync with your body.
Practicing yoga in your garden or in the park adds the extra benefit of being surrounded by nature. You can feel the sunlight on your skin, which boosts serotonin production, and you can hear the birds chirping, which relaxes your mind.
Jogging
Jogging is a great form of outdoor exercise. Grab your running shoes, put on your favorite playlist, and get jogging!
Jogging doesn’t need to be difficult or exhausting. Take a light jog around your local park to surround yourself with nature. You can enter your own world while listening to motivating music, and you will feel the endorphin rush almost immediately.
Hiking
If you love heading out on adventures and like exploring new areas of your local town, hiking is another great way to get in your 75 to 150 minutes of weekly exercise.
You will be able to breathe in the crisp forest air or experience the stunning views from the top of a peak. There’s no doubt that you feel on top of the world (literally) when you complete a great hike.