With all its challenges, 2020 also came with a few positive lessons learned. For one, many of us have a newfound appreciation for time spent outdoors. From dining to shopping to family gatherings, we\u2019ve taken many traditionally indoor events out into the open air. And we are no worse for the wear. In fact, in some ways, we may be better off.<\/p>\n
\u201cBeing outdoors improves your mood and mental focus,\u201d says James Coupe, PsyD, psychologist in private practice and clinical director of St. John Vianney Center, a residential center in Downingtown, PA. \u201cParticipation in outdoor activities helps you feel energized and restored,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n
Not to mention the effects on awareness. \u201cMindfulness requires you to exercise awareness and acceptance, which demands psychic energy and attention,\u201d Coupe says. \u201cBeing outside facilitates this experience because there are so few distractions,\u201d he says. Instead of connecting to our devices, we find connections to the sound of water lapping on the shore, the warmth of sunlight on our faces, and the energy we feel when we breathe fresh air, all of which support mindfulness practice.<\/p>\n
Being in nature also relieves stress. Studies show people who spend time outdoors have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than those who spend more time inside.<\/p>\n
And outdoor activities help us socially distance, and therefore, continue to safely engage in things we might not have otherwise been able to do.<\/p>\n
How much time should I spent outside to reap the benefits, you may wonder? Recent research published in Scientific Reports<\/em> says at least two hours a week. Good timing; as the days get longer, they present even more opportunities for sun and fresh air.<\/p>\n With summer on the horizon, here are some creative ways to take traditionally indoor activities outside:<\/p>\n As humans, we are designed to be outdoors. Our brains are wired to respond to all the smells, sights, and wonders you experience outside. And because it forces you to slow down and unplug, nature offers the perfect backdrop for mindfulness. As you engage in more outdoor endeavors this summer, soak in all that you smell, hear, and see. When you boogie board in the ocean, notice the sound of the waves and the smell of the salty air. On a walk through the woods, make it a point to appreciate every animal, flower, and bird. Outdoor living is good for more than social distancing and benefits us, body and soul.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" With all its challenges, 2020 also came with a few positive lessons learned. For one, many of us have a newfound appreciation for time spent outdoors. From dining to shopping to family gatherings, we\u2019ve taken many traditionally indoor events out into the open air. And we are no worse for the wear. In fact, in […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[80],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16104","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-mindful-living-uk"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\r\n\n