Being cooped up indoors all day, surrounded by artificial lighting and recirculated air, can have a detrimental effect to our health and wellbeing. It is important to take care of our mind, body and soul by giving them what they need and not depriving them of the natural essentials. The outdoors plays a significant role in our health and as an avid supporter of the outdoor living lifestyle, we wanted to highlight the positive effects it can have on your mind and body and how you can stay safe.
1. Happy Days
We are naturally happier when the sun is shining outdoors, it is proven that sunshine plays a key role in improving our moods. When we are exposed to sunlight, the brain reacts and releases a hormone called serotonin, an essential chemical in our bodies that makes us feel good and boosts our focus levels whilst giving us the feeling of calmness. Now can you see why you’re not as happy when it comes to winter?
2. Vitamin Delicious
Vitamin D is a vital natural goodness that we all need in order to keep our bodies healthy and strong; it helps to regulate the absorption of calcium and phosphorus whilst aiding the development of strong bones and teeth. Asides these important benefits, vitamin D can also help to fight diseases. We are not saying that you should now be out in the sun all day, as that would not be deemed safe, it only takes 15 minutes of being in direct sunlight to obtain your daily amount of vitamin D. We would advise applying sun lotion as a precaution.
3. Less Stress
This is naturally linked to positive effect number one; when we are happy, we are generally stress free. Good weather leads us outdoors, doing the gardening or to read a book whilst enjoying a cold beverage, whatever it is you are doing you will be outside staying active and releasing the daily stress built up from your everyday routine.
4. Fresh Air
Stepping outside and taking a deep breath of fresh air after being confined to four walls for a long time can be such a relief. As long as the air is clean you can benefit greatly as it will give you more energy and keep you focused. If you’re sat behind a desk all most of the time, do you ever wonder why you’re getting tired by the end of the day? Next time pass on the coffee and simply step outside for ten minutes and reset, you will quickly feel the effects.
As you can see outdoor living is essential to staying healthy, but it is also important to enjoy the outdoors safely. When the good weather arrives and the sun is shining, some people will get carried away and soak up too much sun without thinking about the harmful effects it can have, such as heatstroke, sunburn and dehydration. It may not feel like you are doing that much damage at the time, but it could lead to long term problems. 
One of our main priorities as a company is to promote sun safety and our innovative range of External Shading Solutions have been developed to allow users to enjoy their outdoor spaces for longer in a safe environment, whilst enhancing their healthy lifestyles. Explore our comprehensive range of external shading systems and transform your garden to the perfect outdoor retreat.
