- Negative Ions. The air outside is filled with negative ions, which have been scientifically proven to reduce stress and increase serotonin – aka, the happy chemical! The ratio of these ions is highest around moving water and during storms, with waterfalls said to be the most effective.
- Mental Clarity. Have you ever experienced that feeling where your brain is encased in a thick fog that impedes your ability to think straight? Spending time outdoors can give you the mental boost you need to re-focus your mind, resulting in better productivity and performance.
- Vitamin D. You’ve been told by your mother, and your doctor, but vitamin D really is as important as they say it is. We all know by now that life can give you cancer, but did you know that low levels of vitamin D can lower your mood, make you more susceptible to infections and cause general aches and pains? So slap on some sunscreen and go for a walk!
- Animals Are Cool. There’s a reason why cat videos are some of the most popular videos on the internet. Animals are fascinating creatures, and watching them do amusing and sometimes bizarre things in their natural environments is enough to brighten anyone’s day.
- Better Sleep. Natural light is essential for your body to maintain a regular sleep cycle with its regulation of melatonin, which signals when it’s time for bed. If you’re like me and stay up until ridiculous hours of the morning regardless of what your body tells you, well then… NIGHT OWLS UNITE! In all seriousness though, if you have trouble sleeping, make sure to turn off all lights when readying yourself for sleep (including the light emitted from screens!), and make sure to spend a couple of minutes in the sun when you first wake up.
- Nature Is Healing. People who spend more time in nature heal faster than those who don’t. As little as 20 minutes a day spent outside can speed up your body’s recovery time when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Being Inside Is Boring. Buildings are consistent, and therefore boring. The lighting, temperature and surroundings are regulated and stay relatively the same unless we decide to make changes. Nature is unpredictable and no two trees or sunsets will ever be the same.
- A Chemical World. Man-made objects and constructed environments are filled with all kinds of nasty chemicals that can mimic hormones, attack our immune systems and cause a host of other negative responses in our bodies. Whilst we can never completely rid ourselves of these pollutants, there are far less of them outdoors.
- The Elements Are Amazing. If you’re in a bad mood, I guarantee walking outside and feeling the wind blow through your hair or rain falling against your skin is bound to put a smile on your face.
- Nature Is Beautiful! If you have eyes, this doesn’t need explaining. Now go and increase those negative ions!
-S
Alive & Terrified 