Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
They say that “April showers bring May flowers” and boy, oh boy, I sure hope that’s true! We have had more than our fair share of showers this spring and I’m hearing from everyone coming through the clinic that they are ready for spring. I know that I sure am, and one of the biggest reasons for me is to be able to move my exercise outside. But what is it about getting outdoor exercise that just feels so much better than just being stuck in the gym?
Exercise + Outdoors
We all know that exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. In fact, exercise can be viewed as a nutrient that the body requires for good health. When we take that exercise and move it outdoors, there are even more benefits to be gained. Being outside increases our consumption of oxygen, which is critical for proper brain and muscle function. We are exposed to the sunshine, which increases our production of Vitamin D, which affects our mood levels, reduces inflammation and protects us against everything from osteoporosis to cancer. Time spent outdoors has also been shown to increase levels of concentration and reduce stress levels.
Adding a friend into the mix bumps up the benefits even further. In studies about keeping our brains sharp, movement and discussions with loved ones have been shown to be some of the most effective ways to build new neural pathways in the brain. Therefore, going out for a walk or workout with a friend is one of the best strategies available to keep our brains sharp.
A Solid Foundation with Chiropractic Care
As we look for those temps to rise and the sun to shine so we can get out, remember that you want to do so with a great foundation of function. Getting adjusted with your chiropractor helps keep you functioning well so you can perform at your best and prevent you from injury as you jump into those seasonal activities outdoors. Let us help you spring into health!