Sometimes on vacation it can be tempting to spend your whole trip visiting stores and museums or even just sleeping in your comfortable bed at Marina Beach Motel. But did you know that spending time in nature is actively good for you? It’s true! If you’re still not convinced, here are 5 health benefits of getting out in nature.
1. Strengthens Immune System
One of the best things you can do for your body is expose it to germs. It may seem counterintuitive, but if you spend time around lots of germs, it actually strengthens your immune system.
That’s why spending time in nature is one of the best things you can do for your health. There are lots of germs in nature, but they’re typically in small concentrations. So your body learns how to combat them naturally, making you more able to fight off illness in the long run.
2. Boosts Mood
If you suffer from depression or have simply been a little down lately, getting outside may be just the thing you need. Studies have shown that being in nature for even a few minutes every day can do wonders for your mental well-being.
This has to do with the benefits of exposure to natural sunlight, as well as the feelings of peace and oneness with nature that people tend to feel when they’re outdoors. So try a bike trail or go on a hike next time you’re feeling low.
3. Relieves Stress
In that same vein, spending time outdoors can also be helpful for people with a lot of stress – even those suffering from anxiety disorders. Spending time in nature can reduce your blood pressure as well as your body’s production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These effects increase even more if you exercise in nature.
This is because exercise is also a natural stress reliever. Regardless though, if you’re feeling stressed or anxious, try doing something as simple as going for a walk. You may be surprised by how much better you feel.
4. Increases Focus
One of the great things about getting out in nature is that you’re finally free of distractions. You start to notice little details around you and appreciate how fresh the air is and how pretty the birds sound.
Getting just a little of this exposure can greatly improve your focus. This is partially because being in nature relieves stress and partially because it is free of distractions. This means that overall, spending a little time outside can greatly improve your ability to focus on difficult tasks and solve complex problems.
5. Fortifies Bone Health
Spending time in nature also means spending time in sunlight, which provides your body with lots of Vitamin D. This exposure to Vitamin D is essential for your bones’ strength and overall health.
So make a point of soaking up some sunshine on a regular basis. Maybe try visiting one of the many beautiful Santa Barbara beaches to start.
Regardless of how or why you get out in nature, though, everyone should do it. It’s good for your mental and physical health, but it’s also fun. It’s especially fun when you’re staying in a place like Santa Barbara, where there are always fun activities to do and places to see!
