In a world full of long school days, classrooms without windows, many indoor extracurriculars and sports, I always find myself longing for just a minute to breathe fresh air and to see more than just concrete and fluorescent lighting.
Even if you don’t long for that deep connection to nature, there’s numerous health improvements to think of too. Improved focus, better sleep, less anxiety, to name a few.
Yes, being inside has its comforts too. Temperature controlled, no rain, no bugs, it is appealing…. But the benefits of spending time outside outweigh these comforts in so many ways.
For me, being outside is an opportunity to step away from the crazy busyness of our lives and take a moment to pause. The sound of animals around me, wind, the stillness, it’s very calming. It takes me out of autopilot mode and makes me present in the moment.
It doesn’t need to be hours and hours on end in nature, but even just a short walk around the block or eating your dinner outside, when the weather allows, can be helpful and I encourage you to give it a try!
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