By Mercedes Korngut and Anastasia Korngut | Co-Founders, Smallbitsofhappiness.com
In today’s fast-paced society, it’s all too easy to spend the entire day indoors. With an array of entertainment options like television, social media, mobile games, and video games at our disposal, we often choose to stay in when boredom strikes. Yet, the benefits of taking a stroll outside are numerous and significant. While we frequently hear about the advantages of outdoor activity, we decided to examine precisely how a simple walk can positively impact us, and what we found has reshaped our view on embracing the outdoors.
We’ve categorized the various advantages of walking outside into several key areas:
Physical Activity
Taking a walk outdoors contributes to physical activity. This form of exercise sparks the release of endorphins, which are the brain’s “feel-good” hormones, while simultaneously lowering cortisol, the stress hormone. Additionally, it helps redirect our thoughts away from anxieties by translating strong feelings into physical movement.
Sunshine
Exposure to sunlight rejuvenates us by regulating our circadian clock, which aids in determining when it’s time for sleep. Furthermore, sunlight provides a host of additional benefits. It elevates our mood by promoting the release of serotonin, another happiness hormone, while also boosting our vitamin D levels, critical for stronger bones, enhanced immune function, and overall wellness. Just a daily 15-minute outdoor walk can greatly enhance your vitamin D levels.
Boosting Vitamin N (Nature)
This may sound unusual, but researchers have introduced the term “Vitamin N” to highlight the health advantages we gain from nature. Just as essential as nutritional vitamins, nature significantly contributes to our well-being. Spending time outdoors, even if briefly, can strengthen our immune systems (thanks to sunlight), foster creativity by refreshing our focus, improve vision, and much more.
Social Connections
Looking to bond with a family member or friend? Invite them to accompany you for a walk or stroll over to their location. Alternatively, if you seek solitude after a hectic day, consider asking your parents for permission to walk alone (remaining close to home). Walking with someone else not only allows you to enjoy the mental and physical perks of walking but also provides a chance to reconnect with loved ones, which can elevate your mood as physical interaction prompts the release of oxytocin, yet another happiness hormone.
Given the compelling scientific evidence regarding the value of outdoor activity, particularly walking, it’s evident that integrating outdoor time into our daily lives is essential for our overall health. Therefore, whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike through the woods, or a leisurely stroll by the beach, spending time outside allows us to engage with nature and enjoy its numerous benefits.
ABOUT THE TEEN AUTHORS
Mercedes Korngut, Co-Founder & CEO
Mercedes, a passionate teenager, is dedicated to helping others find joy in everyday life through her work. She produces and co-hosts the podcast “Hack Your Happiness” and oversees all video content for Small Bits of Happiness. Additionally, she contributes articles on happiness and the parent-teen relationship to various North American magazines.
Anastasia Korngut, Co-Founder & COO
Anastasia is an enthusiastic fashion designer spearheading the design division of Small Bits of Happiness. Her focus is on intentional innovation, creating products that uplift daily moods. She also manages social media and co-hosts “Hack Your Happiness.”
Discover more about finding happiness at https://smallbitsofhappiness.com.
