If in childhood we could afford to frolic in the fields at the dacha, run in the park and ride a bike all day, then as we grow up, many of us spend most of our time indoors. But all the hours spent in the fresh air were beneficial not only because they helped us to throw out unlimited childish energy. Science says being outdoors has a number of beneficial effects.
Fresh air improves health
As you know, trees use photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into the oxygen we breathe. Trees purify the air, making it fit for our lungs. Fresh air is especially useful for those who live in urban areas where the air is heavily polluted.
Poor air can lead to a number of serious health problems. Heavy impurities cause burning sensation in the eyes, nose and throat. At the same time, people suffering from bronchial asthma experience particular difficulties with breathing. Some chemicals that can be present in the air – such as benzene and vinyl chloride – are highly toxic. They can even provoke cancer, serious damage to the lungs, brain and nervous system, and activate congenital defects. Breathing in the fresh air that plants produce reduces the risk of exposure to these dreaded pollutants.
In addition, a simple walk down the street will help strengthen the immune system: physical activity leads to the growth of neutrophils and monocytes, which ultimately enhances immune function.
Outdoor scents help fight stress and boost mood
Stop and smell the roses: their scent promotes relaxation. Other flowers, such as lavender and jasmine, can reduce anxiety and improve mood. Research shows that pine scent reduces stress and is relaxing. Even a walk in the park or in your own backyard can help you feel calmer and happier when you catch the scent of freshly cut grass. And while rainstorms can disrupt your plans, there is nothing more beautiful than the smell of rain. We associate this smell with green and evoke pleasant emotions.
Fresh air energizes
Avoid energy drinks. Scientific evidence says that being outdoors and surrounded by nature increases our energy by 90%. “Nature is fuel for the soul,” says Richard Ryan, a researcher and professor of psychology at the University of Rochester. “Often, when we are feeling exhausted and tired, we reach for a cup of coffee, but research shows that the best way to get energized is to reconnect with nature.”
Staying outdoors in sunny weather helps the body produce the vitamin D
By being outdoors on a sunny day, you help your body produce a vital nutrient: vitamin D. A large body of scientific research has shown a link between vitamin D deficiency and the occurrence of over a hundred diseases and health problems. The most serious are cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
People who are not outdoors, live far from the equator, have dark skin, or use sunscreen every time they leave the house, do not get the right amount of vitamin D. More information about vitamin D can be found here and watch in this video …
And I also want to add my own personal observation. The longer and more often I am outdoors, the better I look. When you have to spend more time indoors, depriving yourself of walks for several days in a row, even in the city, the skin becomes dull, and the whites of the eyes turn red. Having understood this pattern, I began to force myself to go outside more often, even if the weather is not very favorable for walking.