Spending 20 Minutes in Nature Every Day & Working Out 3 Times or More Per Week
November 21 - 27
Introduction
This week I combined 2 of my challenges and attempted to spend 20 minutes in nature every day while working out. I live beside a park, so I regularly go for runs, have picnics, read, and generally chill there during summer. I also love hiking, paddle boarding, and kayaking in all of BC’s beautiful parks when the weather is good. Unfortunately, I stay indoors as much as possible when its rainy and or cold. In fact, I am almost wholly cut off from nature from September – May. I realize this is not ideal for my health, so that is why I decided to go for a daily jog regardless of the weather this week. However, before diving into my experience, I want to highlight some of the perceived benefits of spending time in nature and exercising regularly.
Some of the Benefits of Spending Time In Nature
1. Spending time in nature can help lower your risk of respiratory concerns.
2. Spending time in nature can help improve your sleep.
3. Spending time in nature can help improve your mood.
4. Spending time in nature can help you feel more relaxed and focused.
5. Spending time in nature can help boost your immune function.
6.Spending time in nature can lower your chance of developing myopia or nearsightedness.
7. Spending time in nature can make you feel happier, more peaceful, and more optimistic.
Some of the Benefits of Exercising Regularly
1. Exercise can make you feel happier.
2. Exercise can help with weight loss.
3. Exercise is good for your muscles and bones.
4. Exercise can increase your energy levels.
5. Exercise can reduce your risk of chronic disease.
6. Exercise can help skin health.
7. Exercise can help your brain health and memory.
My Experience
Unfortunately, I failed to complete this challenge. I was able to go on runs on the days I didn’t have school or work, but on the three days I had to go to school, I didn’t go on any runs. I have classes later in the afternoon, so by the time I am home from school, it is already really dark, and I honestly did not feel safe running alone at night. I also did not wake up early enough to go on runs before my classes. However, I get to spend a little time in nature when I walk to my bus on the days I go to school. So in the future, on days when I come home late, I will count my walk to the bus as my time spent in nature, and I will try to do some other form of cardio indoors instead.
Here is an Interesting TEDTalk About the Psychological Effects of Spending Time in Nature
References
Pattemore, C. (2022, August 5). Spending Time In Nature Is Good for You. New Research Explains Why. Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/health-benefits-of-being-outdoors#emotional-wellness
Semco, A. (2021, December 14). The Top 10 Benefits of Regular Exercise. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-exercise#TOC_TITLE_HDR_8
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