As life evolves, humans are spending more time with technology and less time with nature. Growing evidence shows that time outdoors has both physical and psychological benefits for adults and children alike. Spending just 2 hours per week outside for recreational activities has the following impacts:
- Improved mood and increased happiness
- Lower stress
- Improved executive function skills, including improved attention, better memory, and increased cognitive flexibility
- Increased empathy and cooperation
- Reduced risk of psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorders
- Increased vitamin D
- Increased physical activity
By spending time outdoors, children also gain better self-control, better school performance, increased self-esteem, and increased creativity.
It’s time to shut down your digital device and go outside to reap the many benefits nature has to offer.
Additional information:
Human Benefits of Green Spaces, University of Delaware Cooperative Extension
The Importance of Outdoor Experiences in the Primary Years, University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources
https://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/g2202.pdf
Source: The American Psychological Association
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.