At this time of year we do spend a lot of time indoors. Outside it’s cold, bleak and dark, so we prefer to stay inside. Under a blanket on the couch with a nice cup of tea. Delicious, of course, but it also ensures that you spend less time outside and exercise less. As a result, you have a high chance of a vitamin D deficiency and it causes an increase in stress level. That’s why I’m giving you 5 very good reasons to make sure you spend enough time outside. For a winter full of energy!
We all spend only 10% of our day outside. While sufficient daylight is crucial for your physical and mental health. Especially in the autumn and winter months, it is extremely important to spend as much time as possible outside. For example, go outside to exercise instead of going to the gym, take a walk during your lunch break or take the children to school by bike or on foot. Try to spend at least 15-30 minutes a day outside. Preferably between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, because that’s when the sun is at its strongest. Even on a cloudy day, because even then the sun’s rays reach your skin.
1. Vitamin D
Under the influence of daylight, your body produces vitamin D. This is necessary to be able to absorb calcium from your diet. Vitamin D is important for growth and it ensures the maintenance of strong bones and teeth. In addition, vitamin D also plays a role in the proper functioning of the muscles and is conducive to your resistance. There is also increasing evidence of a link between your mood and vitamin D. People who produce enough vitamin D are less likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than people with a vitamin D deficiency.
So try to go outside as much as possible, so that your body gets vitamin D itself. If you suspect a vitamin D deficiency, it is advisable to take a vitamin D supplement (discount code glow10) during the winter months.
2. Serotonin
In addition to the production of vitamin D, daylight also causes the production of serotonin. This is also known as the happiness hormone. So you feel happier by spending more time outside. Add some exercise, such as a walk, bike ride or run. Sunlight and exercise provide a serotonin boost!
3. Outdoor vs. indoor air
Outdoor air is a lot healthier than indoor air. Everyday household products or objects are already causing a deterioration in the air quality in the home. For example, cleaning products, plastic toys, furniture and building materials. These pollute the indoor climate. Activities such as showering, cooking, drying laundry and burning candles also worsen the indoor climate. So it’s important to ventilate your home well. A Himalayan salt lamp can also help improve your indoor climate by diffusing negative ions. This ensures better air quality in your home. You can read all about it here. But even better is to go outside as much as possible.
4. Nature = energy!
If you do go out, preferably look for the forest or a park. Because nature gives you energy, it makes you more positive and has a calming effect. Nature balances your energy. Whether you are aware of it or not. You can amplify the effect of the energy that nature gives you even more by consciously focusing your attention on the energy of nature. You will notice its effect immediately.
5. Outdoors encourages exercise
Because we spend a lot of time indoors in the winter (literally sitting inside), we are a lot less active. And that while the human body is made to move. So take a brisk walk in the open air. Or choose to work out outdoors instead of going to the gym. Take the bike instead of the car more often or go on foot. Exercise ensures good blood circulation and good blood flow in turn provides more energy in your cells. In addition, exercising in the open air is also good for reducing stress. So you will feel a lot better after a nice walk in the open air.
While it’s very tempting to stay indoors during harsh, cold fall and winter days, you’ll find that going outside makes you feel so much better. It is good for your resistance, reduces stress and it gives you an energy boost for the rest of the day. So get your body moving, breathe in the fresh air, catch every ray of sunshine you can and enjoy nature. Opt for a winter full of energy!
Would you like to receive a message from me every week with tips and inspiration about a conscious, sustainable and low-tox lifestyle? Sign up for the newsletter.
