We nearly can’t imagine but there is such a thing as Nature Deficit Disorder. This happens when one lives without seeing nature and being outdoors, while on the other hand being more likely to consume electronic media by children. Simply crazy!
Not to worry, spending more time outdoors understanding and spending time relaxing is key. Starting to plan your next moves outside, being active, plays an important role in your health. So start planning now for your summer break (and do it with Algonquin Canoe & Kayak Company if you can).
Below are the top 10 reasons to go outdoors (this summer and beyond):
1. Jumping & Leaping. There are many benefits from physical activity like jumping rope, running, walking, cycling or just jumping around. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are at least seven good reasons to get moving.
2. Take a hike. Seriously. It’s not only great physical activity, but it’s good to clear your head acording to Board Certified Ray Sahelian, M.D. While you’re out there, you’ll also benefit from the Vitamin D, which ensures healthy teeth and bones.
3. & 4. Canoe & Kayak. Any paddler knows how fun and exhilarating escaping the wrath of a tree trunk, fallen leaves or otherwise knows how great it feels to complete a trip. According to the Australian government, the low-impact activity of ‘paddling’ increases muscular strength while reducing the risk to bones-and-joints (because its not as much impact as, say, running [below]).
5. Go camping. Enjoying Mother Nature can be serene, and exactly what a hectic life calls for! Camping can be economical, build family spirit (especially on the road and during camping outtings). According to the National Wildlife Foundation, getting outdoors benefits everything from improved eyesight to more brain function through being more creative.
6. Explore. The Livestrong Foundation talked about the many benefits of exploring the outdoors, including de-stressing and increasing confidence.
7. Climb a tree. We just learned about Treeclimbers International, who you might like if you or your children like climbing trees. Note: tree climbing is not just for kids anymore. Benefits include feeling more alive because you’re getting closer to something natural–a tree that’s alive and growing–like you!
8. Learn about nature. According to Benefits of Nature for Children’s Health Fact Sheet, “Access to nature contributes to the health and well-being of young people, and helps to form a foundation for the development of responsible environmental behavior. The planning and development professions can play a key role in ensuring that young people have access to nature in their everyday lives.” Thanks also to the Forest History Society.
9. Play. The Government of Alberta says playing outdoors provides children (and adults) and opportunity to “recharge” their batteries, while being able to have more social interactions–as well as building the link between physical health and outdoor play.
10. Learn more about Canadian parks. There’s no need to travel outside of Canada to view the most beautiful scenes–from skiing, to canoe and kayaking, in every season nature’s beauty has many activities to offer. Just check out Parks Canada, for example.
