Did you know? Outside time

Increasing time spent outdoors enjoying nature can positively affect mood and mental health.

Generally speaking, outdoor enthusiasts tend to be happier overall. The American Psychological Association says spending time in nature is linked to both cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health and emotional well-being. Both green spaces and blue (aquatic) spaces benefit overall well-being.

Several years ago, the University of Derby in the UK conducted a study titled “The 30 Days Wild.” The study encouraged people to do something wild once a day for 30 days. Participants shared that their connection to nature and doing things in nature created a significant increase in happiness and health.

People who spend more time outside can experience greater self-esteem, less stress, increased memory retention and more positive body image. Natural environments also lower activity in the rumination area of the brain, decreasing negative, repetitive thoughts.

Also, those who are outside more tend to be engaging in physical activities, and exercise directly correlates to better mental health.