As the weather gets warmer, we can’t help but spend more time in the great outdoors. Not only is it enjoyable, there are many benefits to spending time out in nature.

Improved Mental Abilities

Sensory overload and mental fatigue are common side effects of the urban environments in which many of us work and live. Studies have shown that spending time in nature allows our minds and bodies to relax, and the increased feelings of pleasure we get from being in nature can help us concentrate and focus more effectively. Just 20 minutes in nature has been found to improve concentration and reduce the need for ADHD and ADD medications in children. Walking through nature also improves cognitive function and memory. Physical activity in a green space can improve cognitive control, short and long-term memory, and overall brain function.

Improved Mental Health

Nature can help decrease your anxiety levels and can aid in lessening stress and feelings of anger. Exercise can also help this, but it’s even better when you’re outside. Just 5 minutes of walking in nature improves mood, self-esteem, and relaxation. Frequent exposure to nature reduces anxiety and depression, while promoting a sense of wellbeing and fulfillment. Physical activity in a green space can reduce stress and lowers cortisol levels by 15%.

Regular access to green spaces has been linked to lower risks of depression. Being outside allows us to be social and come together with family, friends, or even people you don’t know. Additionally, by making sure that you get outside in sunlight every day, you can potentially improve your ability to sleep at night. Daily exposure to natural light can help regulate sleep/wake cycles.

Improved Physical Wellness

People typically engage in regular physical activity when they’re in nature. So stepping outside can help you keep a healthy weight or even lose weight by increasing activity levels. Our physical wellness is positively impacted by stepping out in the open air amongst the plants and wildlife. Cortisol levels, muscle tension, and demands on our cardiovascular systems (lowers heart rate and blood pressure) have been shown to be reduced by spending time outside. Being out in nature may often lead to lower rates of heart disease. The great outdoors can also help you increase your vitamin D level, which is important for your bones, blood cells, and immune system.

Whether it’s walking, hiking, biking, or kayaking, stepping outside can help you live a happier and healthier life.

Here in beautiful Cass County, we have so many ways we can spend time in nature. The COA offers many opportunities for just that with a nicely paved walking trail in Cassopolis, or even through its many activity-based clubs. Just this month, the Walking Club restarted back up in Dowagiac and in the next month or two the Kayak Club and Hiking Club will be available. All of these offer excellent opportunities to be active, social, and spend time in nature.

So linger in nature for a while, you just might gain far more than you expected and end up emerging even better for it.