Need a Mood Boost? Get Outside

It was nearly 70 degrees today, and if you live in the Midwest, 70 degrees in February is just as strange as hearing about snow in Florida in June. Yet, the weather didn't care that it was acting against expectation. It did what it wanted, and so we basked in the uncharacteristically warm WINTER weather.

I let the boys nap in our new hammock while I read.  With their little arms around me, I soaked up their cuddles.  As I listened to the birds chirp, I thought about how many naps in the history of naps have been taken outside, how much more peaceful it is, and how much longer the boys slept. What was it about nature that made it so peaceful? Obviously, other people agree because a lot of "spa" music is really just nature sounds; even sound machines have brook or wind settings. 

Nature makes you happy 

​What is it about the outside that makes you happy? The answer is in the history books. Or, Aristotle's book to be precise. Aristotle said: 

“The happy life is thought to be virtuous; a virtuous life requires exertion, and does not consist in amusement.”

What does that have to with being outside? Many people fall into the trap of looking for happiness in pleasure (amusement).  When we are amused or pleased, it is a passive action. Something is pleasing to us. We don't do the pleasing or amusing; we are merely recipients of the pleasure. That's not to say that life isn't made sweeter by such pleasures but a cupcake isn't going to give you lasting joy. 

Yet, when we do (rather than being a passive recipient) we have the opportunity to find happiness. We do by serving others, consciously practicing gratefulness, showing kindness to others.  If Aristotle was right, then being outdoors and walking/hiking/swimming/kayaking is an exertion too.  It is something we must do; it cannot be done to us. Nature helps us find joy because it forces to do.  To live. To be present and active in our own life. 

Of course, there are many other benefits to being outside.

• Boost vitamin D: This sunshine vitamin boosts bone growth, aids proper cell growth, and helps fight inflammation. 
• This study highlights the link between ADHD and nature. Children with ADHD who spent time outdoors reported a decrease in symptoms. 
• The Journal of Aging Health published a study that linked more independence in the elderly who experienced more time outside. 
• Nature is a mood booster 
• Breathe fresh air: This is especially good during cold and flu season to flush out the stale air in a house. 
• ​Sleep better: Studies continually show that people (especially children) who spend time outside during the day sleep better at night. Getting out in the sun helps to set our circadian rhythm. I can definitely attest to this; I have witnessed my boys sleep like babies after a long day spent hiking or running around outside. 

​What do you like to do outside? How do you feel after a long day spent in nature?