In today’s modern world, many of us find ourselves spending much of our time indoors. With so much time being spent indoors, people are becoming more sedentary and stressed. Children used to spend a great deal of time playing outside, but today, outside of organized activities, many children are in front of a screen. In fact, we have screens surrounding us constantly – computers, smart phones, tablets and televisions! This constant buzz of information can get quite stressful and is a source of anxiety for many.
In fact, it seems that modern day society is undergoing a major culture shift, a dislocation from the outdoors. This outdoor dislocation and indoor relocation, has a negative impact on our mental, emotional and physical health.
But as the saying goes, every gray cloud has a silver lining! Do you find that you are happier and more relaxed after having spent time outdoors? Studies are showing a correlation between our mental and physical health and time spent outside. A 2019 study showed an increased likelihood of reporting good health or high well-being with 120 minutes spent outside in a natural environment every week.
There are health benefits to spending time outdoors in a natural setting! These include a reduction of diabetes, high blood pressure, stress, anxiety, depression and asthma. When you spend more time outdoors, your body produces more Vitamin D which benefits bone health, blood cells and helps your immune system. Getting more sunlight also may help your sleep cycle and can improve your mental focus. Generally, when spending time outdoors, we also tend to be more physically active – especially children. It is important for children to get plenty of activity through play. Doctors are even beginning to write nature prescriptions, recognizing the many health benefits of spending time outdoors – especially in green areas.
Try making time most days of the week to get outside. Go for a walk, ride a bike, bird watch, fish. There are many beautiful parks in the St. Louis region where you can enjoy the great outdoors! Be sure to wear sunscreen and eye protection and stay adequately hydrated.
If you prefer to stay home, Agape Construction can help you create an outdoor escape in your own yard. Our talented team will meet with you to discuss your perfect outdoor oasis. Perhaps you would best enjoy a relaxing, shady garden where you can unwind in nature? We can design and build the ideal patio or deck for your outdoor space. Maybe you would prefer to entertain and reap the social benefits from an outdoor kitchen or living area? Do you prefer a more active outdoor area? We can help you create a fun and active basketball, tennis or pickleball court. If your family loves the water, everyday can feel like a vacation with an outdoor space created around your family pool.
Agape is here to help you get the most from your outdoor space, regardless of the size of your project, yard or budget. Take advantage of your outdoor space, create a space that you want to enjoy and reap the health benefits of relaxing in your own outdoor oasis.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/balance/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-nature
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3
https://www.healthline.com/health/health-benefits-of-being-outdoors#better-breathing
