Masters of Health Magazine June 2022 | Page 84

This study is just part of a growing body of research that all points to the positive effects that exposure to nature has on our health.

In another study of 20,000 people by the European Centre for Environment & Human Health, it was found that people who spent two hours a week in green spaces — local parks or other natural environments, either all at once or spaced over several visits — were substantially more likely to report good health and psychological well-being than those who didn’t. Two hours was a hard boundary. The study showed there were no benefits for people who didn’t meet that threshold.

So Many Benefits

The fact is, regardless of the studies, people have long known from experience the benefits of spending time in nature. Regardless of whether you are at a national park, beach, or your own backyard, spending time outdoors can lower blood pressure, improve your mood, reduce stress, and slow your heart rate. All of this and other aspects of being in nature also contribute to a stronger immune system. 

Editor’s NOTE: To get all the benefits of full-spectrum light into the eyes and sunshine vitamin D via the skin, it is necessary to avoid wearing sunglasses or using sunscreen.

Both of these block the benefits of nature’s nutrients.  Most sunglasses distort the light waves.  A few brands allow the full-spectrum of light to get through to the pineal gland.  Through the eyes, full-spectrum light nourishes all the glands via the pineal gland.  The sun’s infrared light waves nourish the heart, and the ultraviolet light waves help strengthen the immune system. 

Vitamin D has many functions via its pathways through the skin that are not done with vitamin D supplements.  When out in the sunshine, just be sensible.  Avoid burning your skin by tanning gradually.  Wearing light cotton clothing also helps protect the skin.  If you need to shade your face, wear a hat.

When children in particular get up and away from computer screens they experience less stress, use their imagination more, get moving, experience reduced stress and fatigue, and are able to focus their attention better. 

Rhythm of Our Bodies is the Rhythm of Nature

There is no downside to spending time in nature! In fact, the very rhythm of our bodies is in sync with the rhythms of nature. Your circadian rhythm or your body’s internal clock, which determines when you get tired and when you wake up, is tied to the cycle of light and dark, morning and night. By being in sync with this natural rhythm your body produces the right chemicals and hormones at the right time of the day in the right amounts to keep functioning properly—alert when you need to be and sleepy when the time is right. 

Time to Step Outside

The 100 Year Lifestyle is all about leading the healthiest possible life for as many years as possible.

The science is in and spending time in nature adds more life to your years and years to your life.

Gardeners and artists who spend more time in natural daylight, have longer life spans than other professionals! It’s a simple step to take to improve your health and mood right now, and in the future. When you’re done reading this article, step outside, even for a few moments!

A great way to get out of the house and create the perfect 100 Year Lifestyle for yourself and your family is to find a 100 Year Lifestyle provider near you today. Then make a picnic lunch including some of The 100 Year Lifestyle recipes, and head outside.

To your health!