The Science Behind Getting Outside

June 17, 2020

We all know that feeling we get when we step outside. Fresh air, blue skies, the sun shining on our backs, it’s undeniable that getting outside makes us all feel a little better. Whether it’s to play with your kids in the backyard, or walk the dog down your favorite tree-lined street in your neighborhood, or when you spend an entire day hiking a new trail with friends, getting outside is good for all Ohioans. It turns out that feeling isn’t just anecdotal. Studies now show that living close to nature and spending time outside provides a wide range of health benefits such as reducing the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death, preterm birth, stress, and high blood pressure.

A recent report by the University of East Anglia looked at over 140 studies and found a direct link between populations who live near or spend time in greenspaces and good overall health. The study’s co-author, Professor Andy Jones, said that instead of just reaching for some ibuprofen when we’re unwell, we should consider turning to health-promoting environments, such as greenspace, for their role in both preventing and helping treat disease. At Western Reserve Land Conservancy, our staff works hard every day to ensure that future generations have protected lands, urban greenspaces, working farms, and healthy robust trees to allow them to get outside and boost their overall health. So don’t wait – Get Outside Ohio and feel these health benefits for yourself, today!

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