Get Outside & Feel Great!

Spending Time Outdoors is Better for You Than You Might Think!

The average American spends about 93% of their life indoors according to the EPA. That means we only spend 7% of our lives outdoors. That’s crazy! It’s also very unfortunate because it’s one of the simplest ways to promote optimal health and wellbeing.

Studies have shown that enjoying time outside can act as natural medicine, bolstering your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It’s also linked to an improved life expectancy. And on top of living a longer, healthier life, you’ll be living a happier life too.

Nature vs. Work

Working full-time can make it hard to enjoy some time outside, but even five-minute breaks spent in the fresh air a few time a day can improve your health.

Working inside at a desk has a host of negative side effects, so taking the time to get outside for a few minutes throughout your day is especially important. If you’re like me and work your eight hours a day inside, try taking your lunch outdoors or taking a walk for a few minutes around your building when you inevitably become sick of sitting at your desk.

You + Outside = Good Mood

That’s right! Spending time outside has been shown over and over again to improve our moods and help us feel happy. Several studies have indicated that our moods take a positive turn when we spend time outside. It can even lessen the chance of developing depression and anxiety, and in some cases assist to treat the symptoms.

More Benefits of Spending Time Outside

Better memory. Spending time outside can improve your memory, particularly short-term. The University of Michigan discovered that strolling through the park or even looking at photos of nature improved both memory and attention span.

Stress relief. Lower your stress levels by taking a break outside. Enjoying nature offers similar effects as that of meditating, including a lower heart rate and lower blood pressure.

Decreased inflammation. Being outside can also help naturally reduce pain! In 2012, a research study showed that students who were asked to spend time “forest bathing” had decreased levels of inflammation than those who were in the city.

Energy boost. The University of Rochester showed that 90% of people experience improved energy from just participating in outdoor activities. It can work two ways when you consider that being outside can make you want to be more active which has a host of benefits.

Improved brain function. Spending more time outside is even tied to increased levels of concentration, creativity, and better mental clarity. When you have these going for you, you’ll perform better at work and in life.

Increased Vitamin D. Most of us know that soaking up the sun, with proper protection, helps your body produce Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone growth and assists with immune system regulation. Make sure you’re getting that vitamin D you need so much by enjoying a sunny day.

Bolstered immune system. A study showed that adults who hiked two times a day for three days improved their white blood cell count by 40%. You don’t need to go that far. Any time spent outside being physical can help.

Simple Tips to Get Outside More

Enjoy the awesome health benefits of time spent outdoors without changing your life. Use the easy tricks below to help you get back to nature:

• If you’re working from home, do it outside
• Weather permitting, read or relax your porch or deck
• Handle boring daily tasks, like making a phone call or checking email, outside
• Start a garden
• Enjoy a morning walk
• Eat dinner outside whether at home or out with your friends
• Start an outdoor hobby like hiking, photography, or outdoor yoga
• Take your kids to the park
• Go walk your dog
• Take lunch breaks outside
• Join a walking club or participate in a walking challenge
• Go outside at least once every weekend
• Grill your food outside for dinner
• Go do some sightseeing if you're new to the area or check out an area you've never been to

Show Your PRIDE

Now is a fantastic time to enjoy some time outside because not only is it June, it’s PRIDE! Go to the parade, take your friends to the club or park, and strut your stuff. You’ll connect with your community and reap the benefits of time spent outside.

Spending more time in nature is arguably one of the best ways to better your health and wellness. With summer in full swing, we challenge you to get outside for at least 15 minutes every day and make it an hour on weekends. You’ll be feeling happier and healthier in no time.

Setting Up Shop Outside

If you’re wondering what type of yard you can make for yourself here in Vegas, there is an array of great outdoor furniture that can help you to create the perfect getaway right at home. Make sure with these hot, sunny days you’re protecting yourself with a sun cover like the Furniture of America Outdoor Aria Daybed which offers cover, the Thy-Hom Bora 8 Piece Outdoor Dining Set which offers an umbrella, and the Thy-Hom Cane Garden 5 Piece Outdoor Furniture Set that also provides an umbrella.

There are also several options for comfortable couches and loungers so that you can enjoy your time by the pool or relaxing with friends on furniture that you know is designed to stand up to the summer sun. Check it out here.

Got any tips for spending time outside in this fast-paced world? Let us know in the comments below!