6 Reasons Why Getting Outside is Good for You

With the constant hustle and bustle of this crazy growing world we live in, many people find it hard to make time for themselves - let alone plan a trip outdoors. 

Is it because it’s easier to come up with 100 reasons NOT to do something than to see the 500 reasons why you SHOULD? No, I don’t mean you need to go plan some big excursion through the wild (yet). But even if you allow yourself a few minutes a day to simply sit and embrace the earth around you, you will be gifted with one of the most reliable methods of boosting physical and mental health.

Here are some reasons why YOU should treat yourself with a dose of nature...

Improved short-term Memory

Relaxation

Nature has the power to help you unwind, reconnect, and rejuvenate - listen to your brain and react when it says it needs a break. High-stress levels can be associated with depression, obesity, and high blood pressure. It’s easy for us to get caught up in our work and school so much that we forget our brains need to take breaks. Heavy exposure to urbanized environments can send your brain into overload if you don’t allow it to escape the excessive stimulation. Step away into nature for a nice hike or even a relaxing nap in a hammie.

Vitamin D

The sun has special powers… ok not exactly, BUT it can provide you with a good, healthy dose of Vitamin D. Studies suggest that patients with lower vitamin D levels have been shown to have a 60% higher risk of heart disease and cancer due to the high anti-inflammatory effects of the vitamin. Spending just 15 minutes per day outside can significantly increase your Vitamin D levels (don’t forget your sun protection though.) Get out for a sunrise, take a walk at your lunch break, or just sit and soak up the vitamin-rich sun for a few minutes. 

The Air Chair is perfect to throw in your bag before heading out to the park, the beach or even for a day hike that leads to a gorgeous, relaxing view of the sunset. 

Body in Motion

Combining mental stimulation through outdoor activities can improve your mood, self-esteem, and gets your butt off the couch. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention researched obesity in Americans, and about one-third of all adults were obese. Adjusting your exercise regimen outside can increase your energy, help with arthritis, and even lower blood pressure levels. No, I’m not telling you to go do burpees and lunges in your yard, but even a light walk around the neighborhood works too!

Unplug

Phones, Laptops, Tablets, TVs… we are almost always surrounded by screens. While there are plenty of benefits to technology, it’s important to give ourselves mental detoxes from it. Give yourself a chance to reap the benefits of nature and put the screens away. By doing so, you can enjoy the company around you without the distractions. I bet your friends could use some unplugging too, so hit them up and get outside! 

In-Touch with Nature

We need to take care of our ecosystems so other generations can enjoy them for years to come. When you learn about the ecosystems around you by spending more time in them, you have a better understanding of how to treat and protect them. When hammock camping, we have a much smaller footprint than tent campers as we hang over the ecosystem instead of applying pressure and disturbing it. Thankfully, our systems keep you and your gear fully suspended above any mud and critters below, so you can have more time to soak up the beauty all around.

Potrero Chico, Mexico 

So, what are you waiting for?? GET OUTSIDE - take a walk, go on a picnic, enjoy a day-hike with friends without phones. (No, you don't need another bomb Instagram photo) Even taking your work outside to enjoy the fresh air is beneficial. When you have the chance to escape into the wild, take advantage of it treat yo self to a dose of nature.

Not sure what type of hammock camper you are/want to be?? Here's a quick explanation to help!