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THE POWER OF NATURE

Looking for a simple way to help reduce stress, anxiety, and maybe even boost your immune system? Go outside. Here we look at four great outdoor activities to help improve your wellness.

Nature is a magical thing, and according to some studies, can have strong healing powers such as reducing stress, relieving anxiety, improving memory, boosting the immune system and increasing overall wellness. Yet despite all the positive changes nature can have on our lives, not nearly enough of us embrace the great outdoors.

So that’s why, for 2022, it’s time to step outside and discover the true power of nature. From adventurous hikes to refreshing sea swims, these outdoor activities will take your breath away.

HIKE YOUR WAY TO HAPPINESS

Hiking can be an intimidating activity to embrace thanks to the common misconception that hikes have to involve towering mountains. When actually, a hike is a hike whether it takes place through a forest or on a steep incline. Whatever the setting, hiking through a natural environment is more effective than simply taking a stroll through the city. It provides a welcome break from the feeling of always being ‘switched on’ as wandering where there is no WiFi can really help to relieve the effects of the mental fatigue that technology can bring. What’s more, hiking uses almost every part of your body so has both physical and mental health benefits. Not to mention, hiking is free and on your doorstep.

SHOP HIKING ESSENTIALS:

VITAMIN SEA

The ocean has long been revered for its restorative power and in recent months sea swims have become an integral part of wellness-focused lifestyles. While the cold waters could be seen as a deterrent rather than a draw, it’s actually where the wellness benefits lie. The cold salt water helps to steady breathing and therefore relaxes the body and mind. What’s more, the cold water also boosts the white blood cell count in your body which boosts your immune system as it’s forced to react to the changing temperatures. Swimming in the sea also delivers that highly sought-after endorphin rush. The cold water brings us close to the pain barrier. Endorphins are what the brain produces to make us feel good so when our bodies become close to the pain barrier, endorphins are released to help us cope. And if that’s not enough to convince you, swimming in the often chilly Irish seas burns extra calories as your body has to work harder to keep itself warm.

SHOP SEA SWIM ESSENTIALS:

TAKE YOGA OUTSIDE

Practising yoga has countless benefits in and of itself, but taking it outdoors gets back to the root of yoga’s original purpose (connecting with nature and the universe) and therefore maximises its effectiveness. Yoga has long been known to improve health and promote wellness, such as by correcting posture and improving flexibility, relieving pain, boosting the immune system, promoting good sleep, and soothing the mind. Outdoors yoga offers a refreshing environment from the usual indoor yoga studio, and practising on uneven terrain can make performing yoga poses even more effective. Opting to practice yoga as one of your outdoor activities can provide breathtaking sights, sounds, and sensations that will only enhance all of the positive effects that yoga brings.

SHOP YOGA ESSENTIALS:

RIDE ON

While nowadays, most people take to stationary bikes indoors, there are some great advantages to outdoor cycling. A big one is that you can get fresh air, sunlight, and explore nature, all of which stimulate the mind and make you feel fantastic. And it can also function as transportation, so you can cross off your workout and your commute at the same time. What’s more, it’s great for the environment too. It takes around five per cent of the materials and energy used to make a car to build a bike, and a bike produces zero pollution. Wellness and environmental benefits aside, cycling is also an excellent form of cardio - one that comes without the aches. As biking is a non-weight bearing activity, it puts less stress on joints of the hips, knees, and ankles meaning it can be quite beneficial for those that experience joint pain with walking or running.

SHOP CYCLING ESSENTIALS:

MORE TO READ

While the outdoors can benefit the mind greatly, food helps too. Discover the powerful benefits of eating with Domini Kemp in The Joy of Food.