Darsh Thakur
As the weather warms, spending time outside is a great way to enjoy the advantages of spring. The Sidekick staff writer Deepali Kanchanavally shares the importance and fun of being outdoors and the physical and mental benefits coming with it.
As I wake up, the sun shines brilliantly through the blinds, gradually illuminating my room. Warmer weather is beginning to roll into Coppell, encouraging us to spend time outside.
When I go on my morning walks, I see fresh green grass swaying in the breeze, geese waddling around the lake and the occasional annoying fly that I shoo away.
In addition to the wonderful landscapes, spending time outdoors has mental and physical benefits as well.
Many of us spend most of our time inside, working in front of a screen or relaxing on our phones. Sadly, this has become a norm for how we spend our days. Our busy brains forget that we are members of the natural world too, not just the world we have created for ourselves.
Part of what makes the outdoors so restorative is the abundance of green and blue hues. Our eyes are constantly exposed to blue light from our devices, which tires them out. On the other hand, green and blue are easier for the eye to perceive because its cones are most sensitive to those wavelengths of light. Whenever your eyes feel drowsy, go outside and stare at the verdant flora to give your eyes a break.
Being in areas with more biodiversity can significantly lower anxiety levels and boost mood levels. Our bodies tend to relax in natural settings, giving us a small break from the demands of our daily lives. This can improve levels of creativity and focus, even after something as simple as a walk in the park.
Being outside has numerous physical benefits as well.
Of course, it gives us more exposure to vitamin D, which our bodies use to strengthen our bones and immune function. We follow a circadian rhythm, an internal clock telling our bodily systems when to do what.
Natural light exposure can help regulate that rhythm, giving us more energy during the day and better sleep at night. Daily physical activity, whether it be walking, biking or playing tag with friends, helps keep the heart healthy and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
My favorite part of the warmer weather is spending more time outside with my friends. Humans are social creatures, so our minds and bodies naturally benefit from being with others. Research has proven being with friends and family can protect against mental health issues and improve longevity.
With all of the online communication platforms we have today, it might seem unnecessary to be face to face to interact with others, but in-person interactions have many more benefits for brain engagement and development.
Whenever you have some spare time, step outside and take in the sun. Go for a walk in Andrew Brown Park with friends and family, or even by yourself. Appreciate being a member of this beautiful planet, filled with diverse flora and fauna. However you spend your time outside, remember to have fun.
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