Put a Spring in Your Step!
Spring is in the air! How refreshing, relaxing and rejuvenating! The flowers are blooming, trees are turning green, the air is warmer…. Who can resist going outside to enjoy this change of season? In fact, going outdoors and enjoying nature can help make you happier and healthier.
 But don’t take our word for it. Research shows there are many benefits (for both children and adults) to going outdoors, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
One obvious benefit to being outdoors is getting sunshine to help your body make vitamin D, which is important for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. Remember the sunscreen!
Speaking of sunshine, research shows that getting sunshine, even for just a few minutes, elevates mood, lowers blood pressure, and reduces stress.
Research also shows that going outside and getting fresh air helps us sleep better, focus better, and even helps sick or injured people recover better and faster.
If you add being active to being outside, then you get the many benefits of mood-boosting endorphins, weight control, and a healthy boost to your heart and entire body that go with being active.
People who go outside are also said to feel less isolated and better connected with others, even if it’s only seeing people going about their daily business.
If you’re able to be outside among trees, you might enjoy reading up on the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing.” This practice focuses on the therapeutic benefits of enjoying the beauty of trees.
Even if where you live is surrounded by concrete and city, you can find some green space by going to a park or even planting a container garden and putting the plants outside a window where you can enjoy their beauty.
Even a rainy day can be beautiful and soothing (as long as you have your umbrella!). So, make sure your kids and YOU get outside every day and enjoy the outdoors. This can help make you feel sooo good!
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2 cups spinach
