Go Outside and Play

Go Outside and Play

Can trees help you think clearly and improve your mood? Researchers studying how we connect with nature say it’s true. Gardeners believe getting dirty is better than therapy, but almost any outdoor activity is good for mental and physical health.  

Whether you stroll, hike, swim, or kayak, you can enjoy the healing power of nature. Just be sure to use sunblock, insect repellent, and of course, plenty of TruLabs Hydrate. Keep a packet of your favorite flavor in your backpack and add it to your water bottle whenever you head outside. 

Green Exercise for a Mental Boost

We know that exercise, inside or out, is good for your health.  

But the scientific theory of biophilia says humans have an innate desire to connect with nature. Researchers found that walking among trees for as little as 15 minutes improves your working memory and concentration more than the same walk inside. 

This nature walk resets your mind by producing a greater blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Another theory is that nature holds our attention without demanding a response, giving our brains a chance to relax and return fresh.

Drink some Energy +Focus while walking, and you’ll be set to work and solve problems all afternoon. 

Go Outside and Play 

Other studies showed that people exercised longer, with less stress, and enjoyed it more when they exercised outside instead of in a gym. This may be why yoga and tai chi in the park have become popular.   

And who doesn’t love exploring beautiful, scenic vacation spots, adding rowing, skiing, or swimming to outdoor exercise routines? 

Anytime you exercise, drink TruLabs HYDRATE to restore the electrolytes and 18 vitamins and minerals you lose when you sweat. Hydrate keeps you healthy and free from leg cramps without added sugar. You get these immune-supporting ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. Plus, Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12 for an energy boost.

There appear to be fewer benefits if you run on paved city streets, so strive for a greener setting when possible. 

 The Rhythms of Nature

Have you ever sat on the beach and watched the waves move on and off the sand while your worries floated out to sea? It’s a natural rhythm that allows you to relax. Listening to the rain or the wind in the trees can also help relieve stress.

Why is our response to nature so powerful? Some say it’s tied to our ancestors, who evolved in wild settings. They were happy to see a flower because it meant that berries – food – were on the way. 

If you can’t get into the natural world, you may be able to improve your well-being by watching nature videos or bringing leafy plants inside. Put all your senses to work by listening to the sounds of waves, birds, or crickets or enjoying the scents of lavender, sandalwood, or rosemary. 

Into the Woods

Forest therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing.” It is a slow, guided nature walk that encourages you to be mindful and aware of the natural world around you. You can find a program through the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy.

Studies show that forest bathing can improve mood, reduce stress, improve attention, and increase immunity. One contributor may be natural tree oils, called phytoncides, that have antimicrobial properties and may influence immunity and help fight depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and insomnia. 

Whatever the source, the good feelings nature produces are yours for free. So get out and go natural. The plants are rooting for you!

SOURCES

https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/04/12/outdoor-exercise-benefits/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-forest-therapy-enhance-health-and-well-being-2020052919948

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-roots-health/202111/the-healing-power-nature

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature 

 Disclaimer: The information provided in these blog posts is not intended as medical advice. While this post may include links to TruLabs products, it may also contain external links to websites or articles. Please note that the inclusion of these links does not necessarily signify endorsement of any specific product or website by TruLabs.