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
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin June 29, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin June 29, 2021 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Love is a BANANA SPLIT
Did Mum's new boyfriend know the way to a woman's heart?
'I still remember poems I learnt at school'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Actor and Jane Asher
CHERRY GARDEN Street
It was a place of magical childhood memories- but was it home?
JERSEY shores
Beautiful beaches and a mash-up of British and French culture make this island a delightful destination
Lovely lighter DINNERS
Whip up a healthy and nutritious meal
Looking after our WORLD
Two women talk about their efforts to help better the environment
Summer SURPRISES
For a weekend treat, try these classic bakes with a twist
200 years of heroism
The RNLI celebrates its bicentennial of saving people from the sea
Cut your risk of HEART DISEASE!
Some things can increase your chances, including menopause and diabetes. Here's what you need to know – and what you can do
'I want Bob Dylan to join the cobbles'
Dame Maureen Lipman on ageing, her dream co-star in Corrie and overcoming tragedy