The best way to nourish your soul is to get outside and be amongst mother nature and all her glory. Visualise yourself on a beachside holiday, looking out to the ocean you hear waves crashing and kids laughing. You feel the sun beaming down on your skin and a salty sea breeze blowing through your hair – just the thought of being out in nature calms the nerves.
There are a lot of studies that prove many health benefits from spending time outdoors. Read on to see why getting outside is good for the soul.
Nature is a natural energy boost
Forget your daily coffee and energy drinks, get outside for a natural energy boost.
A series of studies show that spending just 20 minutes a day outdoors can boost your energy levels making you feel more alive. In fact, just visualising the great outdoors can give you a boost, so imagine what a weeklong camping trip could do.
Nature reduces stress
We’ve all felt it, that sense of calmness when taking in a deep breath of mountain air or a cool sea breeze. Science can also back that nature reduces stress.
A study in Japan proved that people who spent time sitting in natural surroundings had decreased stress levels. It was measured through a decrease in cortisol levels – a hormone often used as a marker for stress. They also showed a decrease in sympathetic nervous activity, blood pressure, and heart rate. You can’t argue with science.
Boost your immune system
There are many immune-boosting vitamins on the market, but have you ever considered just stepping outside to absorb all the goodness that nature provides? Plants produce airborne chemicals called phytoncides which has antibacterial and antifungal qualities which help plants fight disease. Studies show that when we breathe in phytoncides, our bodies produce more white blood cells which are used to fight off infections and disease.
Get the creative juices flowing
Ever suffered from a block in creativity? Spend some time in the great outdoors, clear your mind and draw inspiration from nature.
A study proved that four days spent amongst nature without technology increased problem-solving creativity. So, leave the laptop at home, turn your phone off and spend some time holidaying outdoors. Whether it be on a white sandy beach or in a bushland setting, some time amongst nature can help get those creative juices flowing.
Get your dose of Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium to strengthen bones, muscles and provide overall health. The best way to get your dose of vitamin D is to spend at least a few minutes in the sun daily. Don’t forget to slip, slop, slap if you’re planning on spending more than a few minutes in the sun. Sunburnt skin is not good for anyone.
The best way to get amongst nature is taking some time out of your busy life to get away. Let our timeless locations inspire you to find peace and relaxation as you explore all that your holiday destination has to offer. Hear the water, wake to birds singing, trees rustling, and you’ll discover a new richness to life in the raw, natural beauty surrounding you.
