Whenever I sit on the beach and listen to the sound of the ocean’s waves and feel the warm sun on my face, I experience a sense of calm and inner peace. Being close to the sea has always relaxed me, which is why I make time to go there as often as possible during the summer.
Spending time in a natural environment is scientifically proven to promote physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. According to a recent study, daily access to nature is linked to healthy aging—especially blue and green landscapes, where water or foliage are present.
“Accessibility to everyday green and blue spaces encourages seniors to simply get out the door. This in turn motivates them to be active physically, spiritually and socially, which can offset chronic illness, disability and isolation,” says Jessica Finlay, a former research assistant on the project and lead author of the paper.
Science has proven that nature heals—so when the warm weather comes around take your fitness routines outside. Being outdoors not only sooths the mind but also reduces the production of stress hormones, lowers blood pressure and heart rate.
Take advantage of the warm weather, go outside and make time to connect with nature every day— even something as simple as going for a walk around the block or having your lunch on a park bench can make all the difference.
They call it the great outdoors for a reason!
Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.
Image Credit: Kristin Vogel
Click here to find out about Rose’s thoughts on wellbeing and health
