The kind of lives that we lead in our urbane worlds keep most of us indoors, either tethered to our desks at our workplaces or at home on the weekends tying up loose ends. Even children today aren't spared, having to spend most of their day either at school, in tuition classes or at home doing their homework. If you examine the situation, do you have the time to get the fresh air that your mind and body needs to function appropriately?
Even during summer vacation, kids spend time indoor because it is either too hot to go out, or they would rather want to try their hands on gaming devices than playing outside. What we fail to understand is that fresh air plays an important role in improving mental health. It also creates a feeling of overall well-being and calm. Here are some reasons why your brain needs fresh air to function and some unique ways you can get that fresh air in.
Your brain power increases when you are outdoors
Your brain power can actually increase with the amount of time that you spend outdoors. In fact, children who spend more time playing outside are even known to perform better academically. The reason for this is that when we are outdoors, our minds tend to be actively used. Our problem-solving skills are heightened with outdoor activities. On the contrary, when we spend time indoors, we are usually engaging in activities that do not require us to use our brains actively, such as watching television. People feel a sense of high self-esteem and accomplishment when they do well at school or at the workplace. This leaves you feeling good about yourself and your capabilities.
Your physical health is improved with outdoor activities
Mental health and physical health both go hand in hand. Your mind tends to follow suit when your body is in the pink of health. Outdoor activities like bike riding, walking, sports, jogging etc. provide you with fresh air and the exercise that your body needs to function appropriately. People who constantly fall ill, or aren't happy with their weight may be depressed or suffer from low self-esteem. When you get some fresh air into your system by increasing the amount of time you spend outdoors, you are improving your physical health, and inadvertently, your mental state of mind as well.
Your level of social interaction increases
When you get out in the fresh air, you are bound to interact with other people. This increases your level of social interaction. Your confidence levels are heightening and your mood improves when you meet new people or hang out with friends, doing fun things. Man at the end of the day, is a social animal that needs people around to thrive. You can relax, reduce your mental stress levels and be in a good state of mind just by getting together with your friends and spending time outdoors.
Your overall health improves
When you breathe fresh air, your body sends oxygen through the blood to allow your lungs to work at full capacity. There is a fair chance that you might not have hours to spend outdoors, especially during the week. But try and take at least 15 minutes out every day to get outside and clear your mind. This also relaxes your body and reduces stress levels. When you are outside in the sunshine, your body absorbs its much-needed vitamin D from the sun, which is good for bone health and also helps to improve your mood.
Most fun ways to get fresh air for the whole family
No matter how you spend your time in the great outdoors, getting in that vital fresh air, as long as you are spending 15 minutes to an hour each day, you are sorted. You might say that you don't have the time, but for the long run, it is important for you to make that time today. There are tons of fun things the entire family can do to spend time outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.
Start Gardening together
Gardening is a great way for you and your kids to get some fresh air in. It is said that children who garden tend to eat a lot more vegetables. Make gardening fun by allowing every member of the family to have their own patch or potted plant. Start with easy to grow veggies like radishes, green chilies or tomatoes. These don't need too much of care and are perfect for novice gardeners.
Develop fun hobbies like bird-watching
Bird-watching is a great hobby for adults and kids alike. India is home to several specifies of exquisite birds. So grab a pair of binoculars and go on a walk with your family over the weekend. If you like to lure them closer to home, install bird-feeders in your garden so that kids will be encouraged to go outside to watch them.
Go on a picnic
Every family loves to eat. So why not pack a delicious and healthy meal and head to a nearby park to enjoy the great outdoors, soak in some sunshine and grab a scrumptious meal on the go? If you have a portable barbecue, load it in the back of your car and go on a long drive with your family. Find a cozy spot somewhere, fire up the grill and cook away. Get your kids to help out so that they feel like they are contributing to the meal too.
Go camping
There is nothing more relaxing and exciting than sleeping under a blanket of stars. Introduce your family to the wonder of camping! This is also a super fun activity to do with a group of friends too. Buy or rent a tent, grab some supplies, a board game or two, a deck of cards, some water, and you are all set!
No comments:
Post a Comment