Why It’s Important to Go Outside Even When It’s Cold Out

When the weather starts to dip, your first reaction would be to stay inside Glenview for the winter. But even when it’s cold, there are many good reasons to go outside. Studies have shown that too much time spent indoors can put mental and physical strains on your health. So, if you are sheltering in place, make it a point to get fresh air and sunlight every day. If you need more convincing to dress warm and go outside, here are 5 more reasons.

1. Daylight boosts your mood.

Sunlight is like a happy pill. Sunlight produces more serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain that makes you feel good. But natural light is advantageous for your mood in other ways, too. Since natural light is scarce in the winter, you need to go outside to get what’s left of it. When venturing out is not possible, just stay on your porch, balcony, or yard on a sunny day, it would be enough to make you feel cheerful.

2. Sunlight helps prevent disease.

When your skin is exposed to sunlight it triggers the creation and activates the vitamin D In your body. Studies have shown that a lack of vitamin D can lead to a wide range of serious mental and physical health issues, from depression to osteoporosis. If you spend some time in the sun, your body’s ability to fight off diseases such as cancer or heart attacks is greatly increased.

3. Spending time outdoors can improve your memory.

Another advantage of being outdoors is that walking can improve your memory. Do walks around the park where you can find natural scenery. Studies have shown that communing with nature improves recall by 20%. This is not achieved by walking around on city streets. Lacking access to green spaces? Don’t worry as physical activity outdoors still relieves stress and improves concentration.

4. Going outside is good exercise.

Stay away from the couch or the kitchen if you want a healthier lifestyle. That means that people who spend more time outdoors get more exercise. Even a brisk walk around the block or the local park can make a big difference in your physical strength and endurance. Consistency is key. Find an outdoor activity that you enjoy and can do all year round.

5. Sunlight boosts your immune system.

During the wintertime, do you usually get the colds or the flu? The answer may lie in not getting much sun during these months. There are studies that prove that spending time outdoors relaxes your body and lowers your stress hormones, this, in turn, increases your immunity. There is a belief that the cold can let you catch a cold. Not true. Doing physical activity outside is good for you as it prevents you from seasonal illnesses because the activity flushes away bacteria from your airways.

It may be cold outside but it’s not an excuse to miss the winter sun.

Are you looking for a Glenview rental home with parks and other amenities nearby? We can help! Contact us today online or call us at 312-265-0660.