Four Benefits of Getting Outside
Stephen Bannar, MD
There’s a reason it’s called “the great outdoors.” Spending time in nature offers major advantages for both your body and your mind. This fall, spend a little more time outside and you may notice some of these benefits.
- Happier mood. People who took a 90-minute walk in nature had significantly less activity in a part of their brain that’s linked with depression, according to a study. Spending time outside is also associated with reducing stress and improving well-being.
- Healthier weight. Researchers have found that people exposed to more daylight—especially in the morning—had a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who spent more time indoors. Daylight may impact levels of hormones that play a role in metabolism and weight control.
- Lower blood pressure. Spending just 30 minutes outside at least once a week is associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.
- Better workouts. Taking your workouts outdoors can make them feel less intense, so you can push harder for longer. One study found that people walked faster outdoors than indoors and said it felt easier when they were outside.
Barton Health is a partner with the U.S. Forest Service's Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit in helping our community enjoy an active lifestyle and I recommend nature as medicine to help maintain health and wellness throughout the year.
Dr. Stephen Bannar is an orthopedic surgeon and physician practicing at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness. For more information on programs and services geared to helping individuals achieve their health goals, visit bartonorthopedicsandwellness.com or call 530.539.6600.
