5 Health Benefits of Spending Time in Nature

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Clinical Editor: Megan Dodson, PA-CWith the rise of technology, people are spending more and more time indoors. So much, in fact, that this day and age is increasingly being referred to as the “indoor generation”, with several studies estimating that Americans spend about 90% of their time inside. As tempting as it may be to lounge on the couch or stay home with air conditioning and wifi, however, there’s a reason they call it the great outdoors. Spending time in nature has been linked to a number of physical and mental health benefits, from improving mood to reduced risk of disease. And you don’t have to go to extremes to reap the health benefits of nature; just a little bit of time in fresh air and sunlight can improve your well-being. Even 20 to 30 minutes a day can make a difference. No cold plunge or Everest-climb necessary. If you need inspiration to get out of the house a little bit more, look no further. From your heart to your mind, here are just a few of the many ways nature can improve your health.