Why we should all get outside

If you follow me on Instagram you will know i'm a huge lover of getting out and about on a daily basis. It hasn't always been like that though. As a new mum there were many days when i didn't leave the house as i was feeling a little overwhelmed or tired. Now i know getting out would have actually helped me.

From personal experience i find going out on an afternoon helps me to stay sane. Reuben gets bored being indoors all the time and there's only so much i can do to keep him entertained. When he was a baby though going out for a walk in the pram was an almost guaranteed way of helping him calm down and get some sleep.

Below are some scientific reasons why getting outside is good for you!

1. Walking in nature could improve your short term memory

2. Being outdoors has a demonstrated de-stressing affect

3. Spending time outdoors reduced inflammation

4. Enjoying the outdoors helps eliminate fatigue

5. Outdoor experiences may help fight depression and anxiety

6. Being outdoors may protect your vision

7. Spending time outdoors lowers blood pressure

8. It could improve your ability to focus

9. You may perform better at creative tasks after being outdoors

You can find the full report to theses findings here.

I also feel getting out and about has positive effects on baby's and young children, it always helped Reuben to sleep and feel calm and peaceful, from a very young age he loved looking around at his new, ever changing surroundings. Below are the benefits for Baby's and young children.

1. It jump starts language skills

2. Improves physical development

3. Lays a foundation for learning

4. Helps create healthy sleep patterns

5. Wards off illness

You can find the full findings to the above information here.

It can be hard to get out daily but even just a short walk around the block or trip to the park can make a huge difference to your day. Failing that you can always just spend some time in the garden if you have one. I know myself if i'm stuck indoors i get cabin fever. If i'm feeling run down or tired the fresh air usually helps, even if you don't feel like it at the time.

Happy exploring