We all know that being outdoors is healthier than staying cooped up in the house all day. Being outdoors gives us the opportunity to have not only a moment of peace but also to improve our overall health. Who knew being outside had more benefits than just getting fresh air and some vitamin D? Our environment has the ability to help with a broad number of problems, ranging from anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression, and migraines, to even cancer and diabetes.

Whether it is a walk on the beach or in the woods, outdoor activities can have a profound effect on our health. One such activity referred to as a “forest bath” encourages walking very slowly through a forest, soaking in all it has to offer. Throughout your walk, feel free to stop and sit down in certain areas you find appealing, fully immersing yourself in your surroundings. This form of therapy, common among Korean and Japanese countries, is known to reduce blood pressure and stress hormones, even days after your forest bath.

Asian woman wearing a raincoat outdoors. She is happy.
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If taking a few hours to walk through the forest or exercise outdoors isn’t an option, spend some time meditating in an electronics-free environment. Hanging pictures of plants or beautiful outdoor scenery may sound like it’s not important but it is.  Even looking at pictures of plants and greenery have been proven to decrease blood pressure, pulse rate, and muscle tension after a stressful event. In addition, indoor plants help freshen the air which can create a healthier indoor environment.

There are many ways to gain health benefits from the environment. If you’d like to learn more about healing with nature and what it has to offer, visit the page of Dr. John La Puma.  He is a  board-certified specialist in internal medicine, professionally trained chef and certified naturalist, and New York Times best-selling author. He offers information on healthy aging, nutrition, wellness, and the many benefits of nature.

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