In this blog, we dive into the fascinating subject of outdoor exercise — could it be a leading factor in improving mental performance and combating mental health issues?
Certainly, there’s no better time than in these challenging days to discover more.
Studies have long proven the connection between health and physical activity such as reducing obesity, controlling diabetes and lowering the chances of a heart attack or stroke. In addition to the physical benefits, research is also proving strong links between exercise and a host of other improvements. Mental and emotional health benefits such as reducing stress, improving concentration, developing self-confidence and deepening self-esteem are all on the list of positive effects.
Unfortunately, in Scotland, 1 in 10 children between the ages of 5-16 years old report mental health issues.
With such mounting evidence, it certainly seems that including exercise in our lives (and that of our families) is a great idea.
Still, I’m sure you’d agree, it’s hardly news to most.
What perhaps is more interesting is the host of additional benefits that are introduced by making a simple change to your exercise routine.
The difference? Move your training outdoors.
‘Green Exercise’, or getting active in parks and nature reserves has been shown to reduce the chances of some mental illness by up to 50% in as little as one week. – Mitchell, 2013
Not only that, but mental illness continues to decrease by 6% for every additional week.
Boosting Mental Performance with Green Exercise
As well as aiding the prevention or assisting with the treatment of some mental illnesses, green exercise can go a long way to boosts your brain function.
Out of those surveyed after a green exercise session, 60% of participants said they were more likely to want to train again. 74% reported an enhancement in positivity. 87% reported a lowering of stress, and 83% said they felt more focused, productive and felt more creative.
Boosting Our Immune System with Green Exercise
Alongside the physical and mental benefits, training in nature can also give our immune system a boost.
A concept, long practised in Japan called ‘shinrin-yoku’ (or ‘forest air bathing’) encourages practitioners to get closer to nature to help lower stress and cure ailments.
Trees emit tiny invisible particles called ‘phytoncides’ to protect them from infection. When humans get out into green spaces, we can also reap the benefits of these microscopic particles as they boost our own ‘natural killer’ (NK) cells. NK cells are responsible for fighting viruses and providing us with a strong, reactive immune system, with many of the improvements lasting up to 30 days.
I’m sure you can remember your own experiences of feeling sharper, calmer and more focused after getting outside? It’s not just blowing the cobwebs away; it could be doing some deep, psychological good too.
We certainly have beautiful green spaces in and around Helensburgh. In the current climate, more than ever, we have a compelling case for adding ‘green exercise’ to our routines.
Get involved with outdoor classes with The Journey and start to feel the amazing benefits of green exercise in your life. Check out the latest offers and classes here.