There’s plenty of evidence to show that too much time spent cooped up indoors negatively affects wellbeing. Worryingly, everything from osteoarthritis and obesity to dementia and anxiety can be blamed on a sedentary lifestyle. The good news is that having a regular dose of the great outdoors is an easy way to help prevent these serious health conditions. Not only does being outside keep you moving to burn off calories, it reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and strengthens the immune system.
Nature is also used medicinally – known as ecotherapy. Due to scientific research that supports its success, the NHS now prescribes nature-based activities as a way to heal mild depression and anxiety. You don’t even need to be out for long to reap the rewards. ‘Studies show that being exposed to green space and the natural world for just two hours a week can be beneficial for both the body and mind,’ says Healthspan psychologist Dr Meg Arroll.
Benefit from garden therapy
Not straying far? Pottering in your back garden is good for you. Research suggests that we cherish our gardens even more as we get older and gardening is a great way to stay fit – one study revealed that women who gardened at least once a week showed higher bone-density readings than those who did other types of exercise. It’s an activity that also gives a sense of purpose and can stave off loneliness and negative emotions. ‘The exercise, fresh air, caring for wildlife and growing plants all support the body and mind,’ says horticultural therapist Deb Hoskin.
Soak up the sunshine vitamin
This story is from the June 29, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 29, 2021 edition of WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Big Help OUT
Support a cause close to your heart with this brilliant charity campaign
MENOPAUSE the good news!
Fed up hearing about how menopause is all doom and gloom? Here’s how to make this period the happiest of your life
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
BABY brights
Stitch this sweet bib and bloomers set for a new arrival
GARDEN notes
Puffy peonies and a glam grass
In the footsteps OF HEIDI
Discover Swiss spa town Bad Ragaz and the surrounding Alpine landscape, setting for the classic novel Heidi
Make-ahead PUDDINGS
Showstopping desserts for weekend entertaining
One pan FEASTS
In her new cookbook, Anna Jones shows how to whip up a meal with minimal fuss
Animal MAGIC
Three women reveal how they are using their much-loved animals to help others
Sensational sewing
With The Great British Sewing Bee back later this month, three women share their love of stitching