Staying Active in Cooler Weather

It is easy to go outdoors when the weather is ideal.  Those temperate days when it is sunny and warm, but not too hot and there are no excuses to enjoying the great outdoors.  However, as the temps start to dip and the rains starts to fall, it requires a bit more motivation to go outside.

There are multiple reasons why it is important to go outdoors daily for at least a few minutes.  Researchers at University of California-Davis have reported that exercising in nature has many positive effects on mental and physical health including: boosting creativity, improve concentration, and improving cardiovascular health.  Going outdoors daily, even for as little as 30 minutes can also improve sleep quality.

The weather can impact our ability to go outdoors, so investing in some gear that is more waterproof will make being outdoors in the rain more enjoyable.  There are many second-hand stores that sell quality outdoor gear at a great price making this affordable.  And once you get warmed up it is easier to continue to exercise and chances are you will not regret exercising once you finish. 

If conditions are particularly bad, exercising indoors is still a great option and offers many great benefits for health and is better than not being active.  

And even in poor conditions, just the simple act of looking at a picture of nature can provide some relaxing benefits and does not even require going outdoors in less than ideal weather.

The act of being in nature even for short periods of time is really one of the best prescriptions I can offer my patients.  

https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/3-ways-getting-outside-into-nature-helps-improve-your-health/2023/05

Author

Sara Love, ND