WOOD YOU BE-LEAF IT?! Getting Outside Can Help You Feel Better
Many of us neglect our mental health because we’ve desensitized ourselves to stress, instead teaching ourselves to “white knuckle” through the day. However, if you knew a better way to manage your stress, you could loosen the reigns more, right? Well, when was the last time you spent some time outside? Whether it’s going on a hike, tending to your garden, or riding a bike, research reveals the positive effects on your mental health of spending time outdoors. Improved Overall Mood Everyone occasionally falls into a “funk.” And while it’s normal to experience that mood at times, it shouldn’t be a constant feeling. A 2010 study revealed that exercising
in nature for just five minutes improved self-esteem and overall mood. Experiencing nature often makes people feel grounded and more connected to the Earth, leading to feelings of happiness and a sense of purpose. A separate study revealed that participants who went on nature walks had increased positive emotions after the walk. Positive Brain Stimulation When you spend time outdoors, taking in the sunlight and fresh air, your body releases the feel-good hormone serotonin in return. Many antidepressant medications work by inhibiting reabsorption of this key neurotransmitter. Additionally, sunlight activates melatonin
release, which helps regulate our internal clock. The more sunlight we get each day, the more our bodies know when it’s time to go to bed. Enhanced Focus and Attention Whether at home or in the office, our brains can go a mile a minute, focusing on everything except the task at hand. While you’re supposed to be working on a PowerPoint presentation, your brain thinks about the new tire you need and the pile of dirty dishes in the sink. A 2020 study found that spending time in nature can calm the mind, allowing for enhanced focus. Further studies on outdoor play settings stated that children with ADHD were calmer after playing in green spaces than in other settings.
Understanding More DO YOU HAVE YOUR END-OF-LIFE PLANS READY?
Talk with your loved ones. At some point, you should sit down with your loved ones and explain your wishes to them, whatever they may be. It can be hard to open up. When everyone is on the same page, the process is less stressful. If your loved ones know what you want and don’t want, then it helps them to know they are following your wishes. Then they may be able to step into a more peaceful place and provide words and presence that are comforting when the time comes. Get your estate plan in order. Establishing and maintaining an estate plan is important. You can
name someone as your financial and health care powers of attorney. That way, someone you trust has the legal authority to make decisions for you. Connect with others. After you have your legal documents in place, do what you can to nurture and develop the relationships of those named in your documents, and others as well. Legal documents are important, but good relationships make it even better. Remember, even something simple can touch hearts. Perhaps just “I was thinking about you and was wondering how you are doing?”
Often, a challenging situation facing a family member or friend leads us to think about our own situation. I frequently hear that the reason someone came to me for health care planning is because of a situation a friend or family member faced. Do you want a do-not-resuscitate order? At what point do you want to consider transitioning into an assisted living facility? Here are a few tips.
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