Exercise Outdoors For Vitamin ‘G’
Green Exercise refers to physical exercise in the presence of nature and natural environments. Studies have shown that green exercise can lead to more positive effects on self-esteem, lower stress, recharge your mental batteries, and improve your mood. A growing number of clinicians are prescribing Vitamin G, green exercise. Being around vibrant, living things affects our psychological, social and physical being. In nature, our brains instinctively blocks out and minimizes the distractions from technology, the workplace, relationships, and other main causes of stress. What more – it’s very low-cost.
Here are some go-to activities and exercises for you to do outdoors to get as much Vitamin G possible.
Yoga
Simply put, yoga is a way to exercise our bodies, breath, and our minds all at the same time. There are many different poses and stretches that can help you obtain the full benefits of yoga. If you want to take things further, try out Eco-Yoga. Eco-Yoga is more than just taking your yoga mat out for a stroll into the park. Walking meditation is a practice to help reduce stress, ease pain, and increase sleep and overall well-being. The art of walking meditation is to learn to be aware as you walk – to use the natural movement of walking to cultivate mindfulness. Center yourself and allow your body to be present and alert. The number one rule? Relax.
Weight-less Workout
Just because you’re outdoors, doesn’t mean you have to abandon your workout regimen. There are many alternatives to machines and dumb bells you can incorporate into your workout. Why not try using your own body weight? Lateral hops, side shuffles, step ups, planks, lunges – the list can go on and on! Who knows, a change in scenery may be just what you need!
Nature Walk
While running is a more physically taxing form of exercise, walking can be just as effective of a workout. Running uses more muscles and requires faster motions, however, NBC News provides research showing that walking also has many benefits. Walking can prevent weight gain, improve endurance, circulation, posture, and so much more. Which scene would you choose – being surrounded by beautiful green trees and warm sunlight, or, cramped in an indoor gym under florescent lights and a treadmill monitor right ahead.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our favourite Outdoor Workout routines to do outside.
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