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. Wood You Be-Leaf It?! GETTING OUTSIDE CAN HELP YOU FEEL BETTER
In a world of darkness, be workers of light.
IMPROVED OVERALL MOOD
For chiropractor Eric J. Harrison, founder of Chiro Heroes, it all started with one good idea. He says from that point on, “the heavens opened, and everything started flowing.”
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.
The idea for the nonprofit group was sparked in 2020 by one of Dr. Harrison’s two daughters, who was working with him in his practice, Harrison Chiropractic and Wellness, in Taylorsville, Utah. She suggested hosting a charity event. Dr. Harrison decided to open his clinic on a day he doesn’t normally see patients and donate the proceeds to an organization that fights human trafficking.
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
“Our patients got behind the effort” so enthusiastically that he made the fundraiser an annual event, he says.
A fourth-generation chiropractor and president of the Utah Chiropractic Physicians Association at the time, Dr. Harrison worked with a group of other chiropractors and friends to found the new nonprofit. The group has raised more than $200,000 for organizations combating human trafficking, started a scholarship fund to help survivors, and arranged care for rescued survivors. Another Chiro Heroes group is forming in Virginia, and supporters have held several successful charity golf tournaments.
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.
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