Playing outside has been linked with reduced obesity, reduced risk of myopia (nearsightedness) and improved physical health in children.
We are increasingly hearing about the importance of being outdoors to our mental and physical health.
Spending time with nature can benefit mental and physical wellbeing in many ways. Some of the general benefits which may be gained include:
- May improve a person’s mood
- Reduces feelings of anger and stress
- Improves physical and mental health
- Recuperate from physical injury
- Encourage a person to be more physically active
- Helps a person to feel more relaxed
- Enhanced levels of attention and concentration
- Improve a person’s self-esteem and confidence
- Help people to develop new friendships and peer support, which is good for our mental health.
There is more and more research becoming available that looks at how our environment and nature affects our minds and bodies; and ways in which nature-based activities can have therapeutic application. For instance, it has been known for some time that overcrowded environments, noisy places, and pollution can all increase stress levels. Conversely, time spent in nature appears to have a destressing effect on us. Exactly how it works is complex, and hopefully over time this research will help us to understand more about it.
Learn more about designing outdoor play areas for children with our eBook - The Environment of Play.
Or understand more about the relationship between nature and our health with our Ecotherapy short course.