Fresh Air and Mental Health

Do you ever have a day that is so stock piled with your to-do list that you find you barely ate breakfast or lunch  and you are still in the house close to dinner time? Whether you are working from home, on a zoom platform, on-line learning, or homework, it’s days like these that drive me nutty! The need to get outside and breathe in air is a must! Time spent outside is integral to our health and happiness. Consistent immersion in nature can serve as a blanket on the mind; calming stress, slowing thoughts and alleviating anxiety. As stress levels decrease, energy and mental sharpness are increased as fresh air and sunlight act as a stimulus to our consciousness. Getting outside doesn’t mean mountain climbing or hard core outdoor activities. It could simply mean starting with a walk every morning. You could also take your reading from the couch to the park! As well, you can meet a friend for a drink outside by finding a grassy spot under a shaded tree. Getting outside either first thing in the day or by the late afternoon, you will appreciate how good the fresh air nourishes your mind, body and soul. No matter how busy you are, take some time to go outside and breathe the air! From a zen meditation: “You should sit in nature for 20 minutes a day… unless you’re busy, then you should sit for an hour.” 

For more information and how to’s, contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com