Get Some Fresh Air

This week we will look into some of the benefits of the outdoors. From mental health to physical health, there's not a lot some fresh air can't solve. To start, the outdoors make exercising easier and more enjoyable. A study that tested cyclists in front of green, gray, and red filters found that when the cyclists were in front of the green filter (simulating nature), they experienced fewer mood distractions and felt that it was easier to pedal. So not only does being outside put you in a better mood, it can also help you get more out of a workout if that's your goal. 

Getting outside can also help you mentally by increasing creativity. A study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology showed that simply walking throughout the outdoors stimulates brain activity. Along with increasing creativity, a short walk outside can also be very helpful in waking you up and getting you ready for the rest of your day. 

The great outdoors also has something that you can only get "out there" - sunlight. Sunlight is crucial for your mental and physical health. The sun plays a big role in setting your sleep cycle - a study done by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences shows that the natural light helps establish your circadian rhythm and restart your body clock every day so you know when it's time to wake up and go to sleep. A study of 101 men found higher levels of serotonin in the subjects during the summer months when they were receiving more daylight than in the winter months when sunlight was scarce - so take advantage of the sunlight as often as you can! 

Now that you know some of the benefits you can experience by enjoying the great outdoors, go take advantage of the free medicine that nature is! For all your outdoor needs check out Low Valley Outfitters to get all the gear and and outerwear your nature experiences will require!