Being Outdoors Plays An Important Role In Your Child’s Mental And Physical Health
These days, kids tend to stay indoors a lot more, mostly due to technology. Although they may prefer to stick to their screens, they should also be regularly spending time outdoors.
Being outdoors plays an important role in your child’s mental and physical health. Nature provides many benefits, such as reduced stress levels, better sleep, an increase in vitamin D levels, enhanced creativity and imagination, and improved relationships.
Research has shown that when spending time outdoors, people experience a decrease in cortisol, which is known as the “stress hormone.” In times of stress, the adrenal glands in our bodies produce cortisol.
Setting aside some time to step into nature will help bring cortisol production down and reduce stress.
Additionally, surrounding yourself with nature helps significantly lower blood pressure and heart rates, which also impact stress levels.
Furthermore, being outdoors can increase levels of vitamin D, an important nutrient linked to mental health.
Lower levels of vitamin D have been found to be connected to depression, anxiety, and behavioral concerns in children.
In a study from 2009, 61 percent of kids in the United States were insufficient in vitamin D, while nine percent had a deficiency. By soaking up some sunshine, it can boost the amount of vitamin D your child is receiving.
If your child hasn’t been sleeping well at night, some outdoor activity may lead to better rest and improved mood.
Monkey Business – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual people
A lack of sleep may cause heightened feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritation. Running, jumping, and climbing at a park could really be beneficial for a kid who’s getting poor sleep.
Engaging in outdoor activities is also an important part of your child’s brain development. Studies have shown that adolescents scored higher for cognitive development when exposed to a natural setting daily.
The outdoors contains a multitude of stimuli that don’t exist inside the house. These different sights, sounds, and smells can inspire exploration and creativity. Outdoor play is also less structured, allowing kids to interact with their surroundings whichever way they see fit. They can design their own activities and have new experiences.
Lastly, spending time outside can improve the relationship between you and your child. When everyone is glued to their screens, it can be difficult to make a connection or have a meaningful conversation. Heading outdoors lets everyone be present in the moment.
Even if you live in the city, there are still ways you can spend some time outside. Go to a park, a local zoo, a lake, a rooftop, or a neighborhood block.
Some activities to do as a family include taking a walk after dinner, having a picnic at the park, swimming in a community pool, and walking or biking to shops that are close by.
Overall, getting outside can improve not just your child’s overall well-being but the whole family’s, too!
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