4 Outdoor Activities That Benefit Your Mental Health

There have been multiple studies that showcase how simply being in nature benefits your physical and mental well-being. 

Spending time outside can give you an energy boost, improve your mood, and reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. 

Unfortunately, in this fast-paced, tech-driven society, it’s not always easy to find time to be outside. Even if you do have some extra time on your hands, how can you make the most of it with outdoor activities you enjoy? 

If you want to spend more time in the great outdoors, there are plenty of activities that can benefit your mental health. Let’s cover a few of them, so you can take time away from your desk today to get some fresh air.

1. Cycling

If there’s anything better than busting out your bicycle and going for a leisurely ride, we don’t know what it could be. 

Cycling has many physical benefits. It’s a great cardiovascular workout that’s easy on the joints. 

However, it’s also an incredible outdoor activity for your mental health. First, it can be a socialization tool. If you’re prone to loneliness or you’ve felt isolated for too long, consider going on a bike ride with family members or friends. It’s a great way to converse comfortably and feel more connected. 

If you want to ride by yourself, you can use cycling as a way to practice mindfulness. Take in the beautiful scenery around you and focus on things like your breathing and the things you see, hear, and smell. It’s a wonderful way to reduce stress and manage symptoms of anxiety.

2. Hiking

Hiking is one of the best ways to meditate in nature. 

Most hiking trails are fully immersed in beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re walking through a shady forest or hilly mountain range, hiking is a great way to lose yourself in nature and feel more in tune with your thoughts and emotions. 

Whether you already enjoy hiking or you’re giving it a try for the first time, slow down your pace and don’t forget to breathe as you go. When you appreciate what’s surrounding you, you’ll feel more relaxed and less stressed.

3. Swimming

Most people see swimming as a great cardio workout, and it certainly can be! Swimming laps in a pool is a great way to improve your physical health, and if you’re able to “tune out” the rest of the world, it can work as a stress-reducer, too. 

However, if you’re not looking to push your limits while swimming, you can take things at a slower pace and enjoy even greater mental health benefits. 

Swimming leisurely, or even “floating” on the water is a wonderful way to meditate, be mindful of your surroundings, and enjoy the natural soothing sensation of gently-lapping water moving your body.

4. Yoga

Yoga already has plenty of physical and mental health benefits on its own. When you take it outside, those benefits become even greater. 

You can find outdoor yoga classes just about everywhere in the country. But, if you don’t want to practice with anyone else, consider taking your yoga mat outdoors and enjoying it on your own. 

By practicing yoga outside, you’ll get all of the physical benefits and the relaxation you typically feel. Being outside, however, will help to improve your focus, calm your mind, and can even encourage you to take fuller, deeper breaths. 

There are so many additional outdoor activities you can try to benefit your mental health. Most importantly, do what appeals to you. Whatever gets you spending more time outdoors is exactly what you should be doing. If you do, it won’t take long to notice the benefits! It helps with anxiety, depression, and so much more. Connect with us to learn more.