You may be looking for ways to improve your health this year. One of the ways you can do this is by simply spending more time outdoors. Here are five health benefits of spending time outside:
Increase Vitamin D Intake
Your body must have vitamin D to absorb calcium and promote bone growth, according to Daniel J DeNoon. If your body doesn’t get enough vitamin D, your bones can become soft and fragile.
Your body can produce vitamin D naturally with exposure to direct sunlight. Most people can get enough vitamin D with only 15 minutes of direct sun exposure two times per week.
Improved Eye Health
Staring continuously at backlight screens (phones, computers, televisions) for a prolonged period can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). You may experience blurred or double vision, red or irritated eyes. Research shows that between 50% and 90% of people who work at a computer screen have at least some symptoms.
Working adults aren’t the only ones affected. Kids who stare at tablets or use computers during the day at school can have issues too, especially if the lighting and their posture are less than ideal.
Going outdoors and taking a break from the screens to focus on objects that are distant can help you prevent CVS and possibly reverse the symptoms.
Better Sleep
Spending too much time indoors and away from natural lights can alter your natural sleep cycle, called circadian rhythms. However, spending time outdoors can reset your circadian rhythms which may lead to improved sleep.
Breathe Fresh Air
Indoor air pollution can be up to ten times worse than outdoor air pollutants. Inadequate ventilation, mold, and other chemicals can lower indoor air quality.
Spending time outdoors breathing fresh air can improve your health.
Increased Psychological Health
You can improve your mental health by spending more time outdoors. Studies have shown that being outdoors reduces stress, boost serotonin and dopamine.
Being outdoors may improve your mood and make you happier!
Add a Custom Patio Cover to Your Home
You can personally enjoy the health benefits of being outdoors by adding a custom patio cover or wooden pergola from Affordable Shade Patio Covers to your home.
