How Outdoor Exercise Can Further Improve Your Health
Exercise has incredible health benefits, but did you know that OUTDOOR exercise can help you reap even more benefits than exercise alone?!
In this blog, we are going to highlight the top 3 benefits of outdoor exercise that everyone can enjoy.
1-Reduction of Cortisol Levels
Cortisol is a major stress hormone in our bodies. It is essential in the process of protecting ourselves from threats, however when cortisol levels don’t match up with the level of threat in our lives it can cause issues in our bodies. Cortisol can lead to pain, chronic disease and can cause us to get stuck in a constant “fight or flight” mode.
Exercise in nature can lead to a reduction in cortisol levels by 15%, inducing a down-regulation of the nervous system. This can lead to feeling more relaxed and calm while exercising outdoors. The presence of green spaces has been linked to lower perceived stress levels and faster recovery from stressful experiences.
2-Increase in Vitamin D Levels
Exercise outdoors can help increase vitamin D levels through sun exposure, which can have a whole host of additional benefits. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, prevention of fractures, aches and pains.
If you are someone who works indoors, you are likely getting less than ideal sun exposure. Exercising outdoors can help to expose you to sunlight which will trigger your body’s Vitamin D production.
3-Improved Mental Well-being
Outdoor exercise has been linked to improved mental health. This is thought to be linked to Vitamin D exposure as well as being exposed to natural environments that promote calm and stimulate the nervous system in a positive way.
Outdoor exercise may also enhance cognitive function, including attention span, memory, and problem-solving skills. Studies suggest that exposure to nature and physical activity can improve cognitive performance in both children and adults!
These are just a few of the MANY benefits of outdoor exercise! Exercise is a crucial part of achieving a healthy lifestyle, and outdoor exercise can further deepen your connection to nature and a sense of overall wellbeing.
Struggling with an injury that is preventing you from exercise?? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness for personalized guidance and support to get you back in action as soon as possible!
If you are struggling with illness or injury and would like to get your body moving, schedule a physical therapy appointment with us today! At Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness, we can help you to get back to the life you want to live through pain management strategies, activity promotion and exercise. Our Cash Based Physical Therapy model allows us to deliver a highly individualized treatment plan without the fuss of insurance companies. Interested in trying dry needling to support your exercise routine and maximize recovery? Reach out to us today!