Springtime has returned, bringing warmer weather, spring blossoms, and the end to the winter slumber for both people and wildlife.

With daylight saving time offering longer sunlight hours, now is the chance to get outdoors and spend more time in nature. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that being outdoors can benefit your mental and physical health and overall well-being.

Mental Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors in the Spring

The American Psychological Association provides information on how spending time outside can boost your mood and improve overall mental health.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Spending time in natural environments can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and lessen symptoms of anxiety.

Improved Mood and Happiness: A 2019 study found that spending time in nature led to increased feelings of happiness and life satisfaction.

Enhanced Cognitive Function: Exposure to natural environments can improve cognitive function. This means things like attention, working memory, and creativity.

Better Social Connection: Being outside with others can create feelings of community and all the benefits of being connected to those around you.

Physical Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors in the Spring

Improved Immune System Function: Getting sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which plays an important role in the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses.

Increased Energy Levels: After a long, cold winter, spending time outdoors in the spring can increase your energy levels. The warm sunshine and fresh air can help combat fatigue and give you a boost to do more of what you enjoy.

Improved Sleep Quality: Studies show that exposure to sunlight during the day can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality.

Increased Physical Activity: Warmer weather makes it easier to get involved in a number of outdoor activities and increase your level of physical activity, which can help your physical and mental health.

Outdoor Spring Activity Ideas

You likely have a full list of outdoor activities that you’ve been waiting all winter to get back into. For some other ideas, here are some of our favorites:

• Hiking
• Picnics
• Biking
• Running
• Outdoor yoga
• Gardening
• Fishing
• Birdwatching