Summer is in full swing, which means more time to spend in the great outdoors! While it’s easy to think of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, swimming, or even just strolling around the block as recreation or hobbies, it turns out that spending time in nature does more than provide a fun change of scenery. From improved memory and creativity to lowered stress and improved health markers, emerging research shows that quality time in the outdoor world is essential to our wellbeing.
Here are a few health benefits you can expect from spending time in nature!
Better Breathing
Air pollution can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory diseases, which you may already know. It might surprise you to learn, though, that indoor concentrations of air pollutants are often two to five times higher than outdoor concentrations. Spending more time in natural green spaces could help lower your risk of respiratory concerns.
You’ll generally find the freshest air in places with high air circulation. For example, camping in an open field may give you more relief from pollution than resting along a river walled in by skyscrapers and factories.
Boosts Immune System
The restorative effects of nature can help reduce the body’s stress response, which seems to help improve overall health and immune response. There’s also some evidence of other immune-boosting factors at play when spending time outdoors.
While we breathe in the fresh air, especially in forests, we breathe in phytoncides, airborne chemicals given off by plants with antibacterial and antifungal qualities. As we breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells which fight infection.
Improves Mental Health
Nature is great for reducing stress and promoting feelings of well-being. If getting outside for an extended period isn’t practical for you, even short exposure to natural spaces, listening to nature sounds, or viewing scenes of nature seems to positively impact reducing stress hormone levels and reaping the mental health benefits of nature.
Between working, riding in cars, and living in urban environments, humans have become increasingly disconnected from nature. Consider booking a stay at Cabins on Strawberry Hill when planning your next vacation, family reunion, or corporate event. The majestic Mogollon Rim rises above the resort, stretches over 200 miles across the rugged Arizona countryside, and makes for the perfect vacation destination. Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of Arizona mountain recreation, relaxation, and lodging while reaping all the benefits mother nature has to offer!
Give us a call at (928)476-4252 to learn more about our services and accommodations.