Nature and outdoors are important to us. We travel in a little Sprinter Van, and we go on trips to explore resource rich environments such as National Parks, forests, waterfalls, and wilderness areas. You can follow us at and there is more information at Van Life By Design. Our favorite pastime is to connect with nature for improved health and fitness.
Research suggests that connecting with nature is one thing you can do to improve your mental and physical health. Do you need an excuse to get out of the house or office? The outdoors is powerful and there are many benefits to being in nature. A healthy body and mind need fresh air. Connecting with nature does not have to include a trip or traveling. There are many local green spaces, trails, parks, nature areas to easily access.
Being in nature can generate many positive emotions. Nature connections are associated with joy, improved concentration, less anxiety, lower depression, and feelings of anger. Exercise can help in these areas, but it is even better when you do your exercise outside.
Benefits of Connecting with Nature
Here are some reasons we can all benefit from taking a nature break.
- Increase activity levels- walk, bike, hike, climb, paddleboard, etc.
- Reduce stress-take a break from your to do chores, lists, worries
- Stimulate your mind-learn new things, let your mind wonder, think more clearly
- Connections-spend time with friends, family, and loved ones
- Boost your mood-relax and rejuvenate, take deep breaths
- Soak up vitamin D-enjoy the sunshine on your face
- Sleep better-natural light can help regulate sleep/wake cycles
- Calmness-release tension, mental fatigue, and sensory overload
Those who regularly spend time in natural environments experience the mental and physical benefits of being outdoors. It is easy and convenient to connect with nature for improved health and fitness.