There’s a reason why city planners are advocating for more parks, or why people seem to take rendezvouses out to the Cascades to hike or ski. Being outside benefits us humans in a remarkable number of ways, from mental health to physical health and everything in between. Living in the Pacific Northwest allows us to take advantage of all of the trails, lakes, and natural areas around us. But if you still need an impetus to go outside, here are just a few:
1. Clear your mind.
Something about being in nature helps to clear out your mind. Away from busy highways, bustling cities, and internet distractions, your mind can prioritize what’s really important in your life. You can let go of your stresses and focus on yourself (and getting up that big incline). Going outside is literally a breath of fresh air from the daily mundanity of life.
2. Up your mood.
Being away from all of those distractions also means you can worry less about things that are bringing you down. When you’re deep in the woods, camping with your friends, it doesn’t matter if your boss is angry at you. All you can do is enjoy the time that you’re spending and embrace the nature that surrounds you. Apparently, the scent of pine can help combat stress and anxiety as well. Turns out a gain in elevation also results in gaining happiness, too!
3. Boost your confidence.
Many people avoid thinking about having to hiking several miles with a 3000-foot elevation gain, afraid they can’t handle it. But really, hiking is all about going at your own pace and enjoying the sights along the way, not about how in shape you are. Once you reach the top, you feel a sense of accomplishment that’s way more satisfying than finishing assignments. Going outside might give you that boost of confidence that you need!
4. A fun way to exercise.
Some people might hate me right now for putting “fun” and “exercise” together, but the reality is, outdoor activities make exercise effortless. If going to the gym is a hassle for you, try a simple run outside instead—no need to pack a water bottle, gym membership card, wallet, or a change of clothes, since you’ll just be out and back! There’s also no need to wait for the cardio machine you want to use, or worry about bacteria left on the bar bells, or feel judged because the person next to you can bench 50 more pounds than you can. Whether it’s running, hiking, biking, or swimming, exercising outside is just easier and more stress-free.
5. It can be an inspiration.
Inspiration can take many forms, and that is especially true when it comes to nature. It can encourage you to recycle more in order to preserve natural environments. Perhaps there’s a bench in a park where you like to read your favorite novel. Nature is also an excellent source for art inspiration: imagine all of the trees, landscapes, and animals you could sketch! Going outside can also be an inspiration to, well, go outside even more.
