The Autumnal Equinox on Sept. 23 will officially mark the beginning of the new season. Although the leaves haven't started changing yet, fall is fast approaching. For all those who live in Georgia, fall in the south means comfortable weather and a reprieve from the humidity. It also means that there are no excuses (barring a rainstorm) not to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Many studies conducted in order to investigate how nature affects humans have determined that the benefits are both mental and physical. Without further ado, here are the top three health benefits you'll receive from interacting with nature.

1. Improved Brain Function

There are many people who blame the internet and social media on peoples' shrinking attention spans. On the other hand, connecting with nature has been linked to improved attention spans. Spending time outdoors has a therapeutic effect on your concentration skills and gives your brain a break from the overstimulation of the everyday grind. One study by psychology researchers Marc Berman, John Jonides and Stephen Kaplan from the University of Michigan found that after people spent just one hour interacting with nature, their attention spans improved by 20 percent.

2. Exercise

Being outside and exercising often go hand in hand. Exercise can help or prevent heart disease, obesity, osteoporosis, type II diabetes, and numerous other physical and psychological ailments. According to this article published in the US National Library of Medicine, people who exercise outside have more effective workouts. This is because they exert more energy outside than while using the simulated "equivalent" exercise machines in a gym.

3. Happiness

Getting outside can also help you psychologically. Nature can help reduce stress levels, ease depression, and increase overall happiness. A dose of sunlight increases levels of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that regulates memory, sleep, appetite and mood.

And for those stormy days (and lazy ones too), do yourself a favor and invest in some houseplants. Check out this list of houseplants that will clean your air too. Even as temperatures start dropping, don't forget to get outside and get some fresh air. Your mind and body will thank you.