Now that the warm weather is finally here, it is time to get outdoors and enjoy it! Within our Borough we have the beauty of nature to enjoy both at the Wilma Quinlan Nature Preserve and Covered Bridge Park…and in doing so you can greatly improve your health! Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can have phenomenal effects on our overall health. Below are a few of the benefits:

Strengthens Mental Health: Studies have shown that walking outside is strongly linked to lowered depression and stress levels. This has a lot to do with improving your outlook on life, and overall feelings of positivity. Being outdoors allows you more flexibility and versatility as it gives you a change of pace and environment.

Reduces Stress: Aside from creating a positive frame of mind, being in touch with nature helps boost our serotonin levels. (the feel-good neurotransmitter in our bodies) It also increases activity in parts of the brain that are linked to empathy, emotional stability and love.

Increases Vitamin D Intake: We get 80 to 90 percent of our vitamin D from soaking it in from the sun. Not only is vitamin D good for our bone and cell growth, it also strengthens our immune functions and reduces inflammation.

Strengthens Immunity: Research has found that spending at least three hours outdoors every day can help increase the level of white blood cells, which help fight viruses and diseases.

Improves Self-Esteem: In addition to lifting our moods and helping us feel positive, going outside, or getting some “green exercise,” can lead to tangible improvements in self-esteem.