Tag: well-being

Spending Time Outdoors Is Good for You

Posted on by Jordank

#Summer has (unofficially) begun! And the warm weather will urge most people to spend a lot more time outdoors. And whether it’s at the pool, on the beach or in the backyard, time spent in nature has positive effects on the mind and body.

The outdoors improves cognitive function, according to UCLA Health. Research says that time spent in nature boosts curiosity and mental focus, and any time passed in a green space can help reduce stress and improve heart health.

For city dwellers, a park can represent a break from the overstimulation of urban environments, says Heather Eliassen, professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Exposure to green space results in mental restoration and increased positive emotions and decreased anxiety and rumination.”

Neuroscientist Rachel Hopman suggests the 20-5-3 rule, Reconnect With Nature reports, to maximize the benefits. It says you should spend 20 minutes outdoors three times a week, five hours per month in a semiwild outdoor location and three days per year in nature.

Outdoor time doesn’t have to be an extreme sport, though. “You don’t need to climb a mountain or drive an hour to a national park to benefit from nature,” says Becoming Minimalist. “Reading a book in a local park, walking your dog, riding your bike or eating lunch on a picnic table are all great ways to connect with the outdoors.”

Build outdoor time into your schedule. You may find that you prefer to be outdoors in the morning, before peak temperatures. And many things you do indoors — having a cup of coffee, checking your phone, and so on — can be done outdoors when the weather permits.

If you wish to spend the day outdoors and want to accomplish something that will shore up your well-being long-term, #clean out the #garage, #yard or #shed. Take whatever you don’t need and #donate it to ClothingDonations.org by scheduling a #free #donation #pickup.

Eventually, you can make outdoor time a habit. A short walk after dinner or a brief mindful meditation can work wonders for your psyche — as can the power of #decluttering. Try one or both this summer; you will be glad you did.

Make Spring a Time of Personal Renewal

Posted on by Jordank

Spring — at least in places with relatively well-defined seasons — is a time of renewal. In the northern climates, crocuses and daffodils are already popping up, the trees are budding, and birds are chirping. Warm weather won’t be far behind.

As nature wakes from its winter slumber, people often start to emerge from their hibernation. That may mean socializing more, exercising outdoors or launching a new project. Whatever one’s rebirth engenders, it’s a welcome respite from the cold, gray days of winter.

“What better time than spring to regroup and reprioritize, and even reinvent ourselves and the lives we find ourselves living?” asks Abigail Brenner, M.D., in a Psychology Today article. Leading her seven suggested personal “rituals” to start a spring renewal? #Decluttering.

First, declutter your living space, sorting out any clothing that you haven’t worn in more than two years and #donating it (ClothingDonations.org can help). Follow up by getting rid of any pantry items and medications that have expired.

Next (and perhaps more importantly), clear your mental and emotional clutter. Shed the practices and habits that sap your energy. Let go of the past, commit to decisions you’ve been putting off, challenge limiting beliefs, and think positively. Progress is the goal, not perfection.

Try something new, and take advantage of the weather to do something outdoors. Try to #streamline and #renew your life to improve its overall quality. What are your priorities? Focus on what you value the most and structure your time around it.

Once your living environment and psyche are clear, you’ll be more relaxed — there’s just “less noise” in your brain, Mayo Clinic psychologist Craig Sawchuk told CNN Health. And the altruism engendered in donating goods “psychologically can have a really good impact.”

So this season, take a hint from nature: Take the initiative to renew your surroundings and your outlook. You’ll feel better and more refreshed every step of the way.