Are you spending enough time outdoors? If you’re like most Americans, the answer is probably no. The acceleration of technology has brought many amazing benefits to humanity, but one of the downsides is that it has made it exceedingly easy to spend most of our time inside our houses and offices.
The issue affects younger Americans most of all. One study found that as few as 10 percent of American teens say they spend time outdoors on a daily basis. This is especially troubling because numerous scientific studies are finding connections between psychological health and being outdoors. It’s becoming increasingly clear that spending time outside is a vital part of living a healthy lifestyle. So, encourage your family to turn off the TV, head outside, and find the right balance between indoor and outdoor time to suit your lifestyle.
Connecting nature to the functions of the brain
We may have developed the ability to build towering skyscrapers and send humans deep into space, but we are definitely a part of the earth. Our mental and psychological connection to the planet has been confirmed in a series of studies that showed people felt more alive in general when spending time outdoors, and also noted specific changes in mood as well. These findings indicate that there is a strong connection between outdoor activity and increased levels of energy, and that people who frequently spend time outside are more likely to report a higher sense of well-being.
Outdoor time and the developing minds of children
Sure, cable television and video games have been a part of our culture for decades, but the children growing up in this century have had access to an almost limitless stream of digital entertainment options without ever having to leave their homes. Researchers found that between 1997 and 2003, children from the ages of 9 to 12 saw a 50 percent decrease in the amount of outdoor activities they participated in. Not only does spending time in green spaces improve the cognitive functions of children’s brains and lead to lower rates of childhood obesity, but it instills in children a healthy respect and and admiration for our natural world.
Take a break from your screens and experience the natural beauty of Wakulla County
If you and your family are looking to take advantage of all of the mental and physical benefits of engaging in outdoor activities, plan a trip to beautiful Wakulla County, FL and immerse yourself in a stunning natural environment. Our unique area is teeming with opportunities for almost every kind of outdoor adventure you can imagine, including fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. It’s the perfect spot for when you’re feeling burnt out on the hustle and bustle of contemporary life.
