Nature and Physical Activity: A Dynamic Duo Have you ever heard that nature is good for you? It’s true! Spending time in nature, or greenspace, is associated with better physical and mental health. Natural settings like parks and trails are commonly used for physical activity, which has its own positive impact on wellbeing. When combined, these experiences offer an even greater array of benefits. Benefits of Being Active in Nature Exercising in nature can have a better impact on your health than the same activity in an urban environment or indoors. Decreases Risk of Chronic Disease: Physical activity in nature can boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. This can protect against cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes and some types of cancer. In addition, your risk of osteoporosis may be lower. Physical activity and sunlight exposure can strengthen your bones and protect against bone loss or injury. Improves Heart Health: Walking in nature can improve circulation and lower blood pressure. It can also increase heart rate variability (HRV), which estimates the body’s ability to respond to stress. These factors contribute to a lower risk of CVD. Interestingly, blood pressure may return to normal quicker after physical activity in greenspace compared to other environments. Restores Mental Fatigue: Outdoor physical activity can help you relax, and those feelings may linger longer than if you had done the same workout indoors. You may feel calmer and more refreshed after exercising in nature. This can result in having more energy and/or feeling less tired than before activity. Lowers Stress and Boosts Mood: Being active in greenspace can reduce stress hormone levels by up to 15%. In addition to stress, physical activity in nature can also have a major impact on mood and self-esteem. After exercising outside, you may have a more positive mindset and feel more fulfilled. Reduces Anxiety and Depression: Physical activity in a natural environment has shown to decrease feelings of anxiety, depression and anger more than in an urban setting. Symptoms of anxiety and depression may lessen with additional exposure to nature. In fact, several therapy programs centered on a nature-based activity reduced symptoms among service members with major depressive disorder (MDD). Improves Brain Function: Walking in nature can improve concentration and memory. It can also enhance your ability to process information, which can positively impact your performance at work or school. You may find that you have better control over your mind after being active outdoors, allowing you to stay focused for longer periods of time. How Can I Be Active in Nature? Greenspace allows for a variety of different activities. Consider the following options: < Prev Next > Nature and Activity: A Win-Win Nature can even help you stay active. If you work out in a natural environment, you may find that you engage in physical activity more regularly. You might notice that it seems easier, and you enjoy it more. This may be especially true if you are not alone. Exercising with others can help you stick to a consistent routine and make moving your body more pleasurable. Can’t think of anyone who may want to join you? Don’t stress! Natural settings encourage social connections and help create a sense of community. Walking around base Running through your neighborhood Biking a local trail Playing tennis at a nearby park Gardening or yardwork Swimming in a lake Playing with your pet at a dog park Hiking Surfing Skiing or snowboarding Golfing ReferencesGladwell VF et al - “The great outdoors: how a green exercise environment can benefit all”Maddock JE and Frumkin H. - “Physical Activity in Natural Settings: An Opportunity for Lifestyle Medicine”National Park Service - “Nature Makes You...”Texas A&M Today - “Does Exercise in Greenspace Boost the Individual Health Benefits of Each?”Walter KH et al - “A randomized controlled trial of surf and hike therapy for U.S. active duty service members with major depressive disorder.”Wicks C et al - “Psychological benefits of outdoor physical activity in natural versus urban environments: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of experimental studies” If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or Text 838255. You can also call 911.