When the temperatures rise and the sun increasingly comes out, many of us are drawn out into nature. Whether on land, in the water or in the mountains. The possibilities for outdoor activities are many and varied and continue to enjoy popularity. It is not only the exercise itself that is beneficial to health, but also the environment. Sports in nature brings some benefits for body and mind. Here are 4 reasons to get out into the fresh air.
Fill up with vitamin D
We need vitamins to stay or become healthy. The majority of them we take in through food. However, the body forms vitamin D on its own, with the help of UV-B radiation, which we are exposed to in sunlight. Extra sunbathing is not necessary for this, because UV radiation can damage our skin. Regular outdoor exposure is sufficient for healthy people to stimulate vitamin D production. Incidentally, the vitamin is particularly important for our bones and has an influence on our muscle strength.
Lower the stress level
One of the biggest incentives to do sports in nature is to relax in the green. The color green alone, for example at the sight of a forest or meadow, has a calming and relaxing effect. Another stress-reducing effect comes from birdsong. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development and the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf found that the singing and whistling of birds reduces worry and anxiety and helps prevent mental illness, or can reduce the symptoms of it. The hormone level of adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol decreases measurably after a stay in nature.
Strengthening the immune and cardiovascular system
Regular exercise in the fresh air strengthens the immune system, because the air quality is significantly higher than in closed rooms such as a gym. As a result, our organs are better supplied with oxygen, blood pressure is lowered and lung capacity is increased. In addition, the stimulated blood circulation supports the immune system, as the activity of our defense cells increases and we consequently get sick less often.
Stimulate the senses
We spend almost the entire day in front of a screen and are constantly exposed to stimuli that fight for our attention. When we go out into nature, social media takes a break. Instead of being bombarded by content, we can widen our gaze and consciously perceive what nature has to offer. We can listen to the rustling of leaves or the chirping of birds, look at sweeping landscapes and feel the wind on our skin. Consciously noticing our surroundings trains our attention and makes it easier for us to distance ourselves from negative thoughts and worries.
Whether it’s cycling, hiking, surfing or inline skating – sport in the fresh air strengthens body and mind and increases our well-being. So let’s get out and enjoy nature.
