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Last century, doctors were still writing prescriptions for “time in nature” to heal patient – so why do we still spend so much time cooped up inside, keeping our windows shut from fresh air and only going outside when ‘it’s just right’.
Scandinavian countries always rank in the top five for the happiest, healthiest people. One of the main reasons is that part of their way of life is to get outdoors despite the weather or challenges of life. They say there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!
Scandinavians talk about how their passion for nature cuts to the heart of what they call friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-liv). The expression literally translates as ‘open-air living’.
Unfortunately more and more evidence is coming to light about increasing sickness due to the lack of outdoor time. There is now the term “nature deficit disorder” which suggests children and adults who spend too much time indoors, with artificial lighting, recycled air and on screens may be more likely to develop attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity and depression amongst other things.
We all know that getting outdoors in nature is a good thing, yet we resist it and even limit our kids enjoying the health benefits and the fun that wild weather can bring by keeping them indoors too much. And it’s not just in winter – it’s all year round. Too rainy? Let’s stay inside. Too hot? Let’s stay inside. Too windy? Let’s stay inside. Too cold? Let’s stay inside.
Moving around in nature has been proven to enhance executive control, working memory and cognitive flexibility. And you don’t need studies or science to tell you that when you get outside in nature you feel so much better – calmer, happier, more focused, energised – you even sleep better. Fresh outdoor air, come rain, wind or shine, it’s extremely powerful! Let’s look at those again with different words:
A simple daily walk on a beach, through a field or in the woods can reduce stress, make you feel more joyful, productive, grounded, rested and rejuvenated. And even better, it’s free! You’d have to spend a good amount to get those sorts of benefits through supplements, fitness classes, medication, doctors and health professionals consults.
So turn off that heater or air conditioner during the day, open your windows and let fresh air flow in – all day long, and at night if you want! If you’re an office worker, get outside more, at least for an hour. Let the kids outside – no matter the weather, and why not bring back that after dinner family walk, even if it’s just around the block or a quick family playtime out in your garden?
Just get out and let the outside in – doctors’ orders!
