Getting Mental About It - Reasons to Go Outside

Mental Health & Cognition –

• Research shows that time spent outdoors significantly lessens mental health concerns such as:
• SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) - Intake of Vitamin D also plays a huge role in mood disorders
• Depression in kids and parents
• Post-partum depression. In fact one study I read – suggested that going outside everyday could decrease the symptoms of post-partum depression by 50%! A happy mama = a happy family! 

• Time pounding out energy outside also significantly decreases symptoms of ADHD

• Increase in problem solving and process skills – self reliance 
• Fosters socials skills such as collaboration and cooperation among siblings and peers 
• Increases observation skillsDevelops deeper understanding of the physical world – including physics, ecology, chemistry, geology, geography to name but a few 
• Increases focus 
• Self-actualization – the crucial skill for a person to understand what they are truly capable of