Research suggests we now spend around 90% of our waking hours indoors. And while modern life makes that hard to avoid, it can take a toll on our overall health.
At the end of the day, we haven’t evolved to sit under fluorescent lighting and stare at screens all day. We’ve evolved to thrive in natural environments. And yes, the science backs this up!
So, here are eight science-backed reasons to get outside.
1. It Lowers Your Stress Levels
A walk in nature has been shown to reduce stress, rumination, and negative thought patterns. Simply put, nature actively calms your nervous system in ways that a scroll through social media simply can’t replicate.
2. It Brings Your Blood Pressure Down
Forest exposure has been linked to a reduction in systolic blood pressure. This probably comes as no surprise, since we know high stress can be linked to higher blood pressure. Thus, an activity that lowers stress is likely to lower blood pressure along with it.
3. It Reduces Your Risk of Serious Disease
Living near green space is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and early death. Yet, while nature alone isn’t a cure-all, consistent exposure to it appears to play a genuine role in long-term health outcomes (and potentially even longevity!).
4. It Helps Calm Inflammation
Chronic, low-grade inflammation is linked to some of the most serious health conditions.
But exposure to nature has been shown to actually reduce inflammatory markers associated with chronic disease. When combined with good nutrition, quality sleep, and regular movement, spending time outdoors can be a simple yet powerful way to support your overall health and, ultimately, reduce inflammation.
5. It May Boost Your Immune System
Spending just three days in nature has been shown to increase natural killer cell activity by 50%. Natural killer cells are a major part of your immune defence, helping your body identify and respond to threats. Thus, it can make a huge difference in how often you might get the dreaded cold and flu.
6. It Helps You Recover Faster
In a well-known study, hospital patients who had a view of nature from their window recovered faster and required less pain medication than those looking out at a wall. If simply seeing nature has that kind of impact, imagine what actually being in it can do!
7. It Protects Your Mental Health
Exercising in nature at least once a week has been linked to a roughly 50% reduction in the risk of poor mental health. And yes, this can involve a simple brisk walk, a gentle jog, or simply doing some yoga amongst greenery. Additionally, every little bit counts; even five to ten minutes is better than none.
8. It Sharpens Your Memory and Attention
Struggling to focus lately? A walk in nature has been shown to improve memory and attention. With constant notifications and information overload, this offers a compelling reason to step away from your desk and get some fresh air—even briefly!
And keep in mind that you don’t need to book a week in the wilderness to start feeling the benefits. Small, consistent exposure is what truly creates real, measurable change. This may include a lunchtime walk in a local park, a weekend morning in the garden, or a regular stroll somewhere green.
And if you’re looking to support your overall health from the inside out, your Finsbury Park chiropractor is here to help. At Posture & Wellness, we take a whole-body approach to wellness, helping you feel your best. Book your FREE discovery call with our team today. BOOK NOW.