There's a thing now called "Green Exercise".  I've been quietly exercising outdoors for years, and meanwhile Green Exercise has become a big thing. Experts have done studies comparing identical activities done indoors and outdoors.  The research results are very interesting - and actually validate what I've experienced in my own health journey. 

Green Exercise – Workout in Nature to Look and Feel Better

Most recently updated January 16th, 2022

If you’ve read any of my other posts, you know that given the choice I most always prefer to be outdoors – hiking, walking, gardening, dining, listening to music and whatever else I can do outside. 

Hikers picnic in the Mont Blanc range

Frankly, sometimes my friends and family find my need to be outdoors a little tiresome.   To keep the peace, I’ve had to occasionally move activities indoors because they want to be “more comfortable”.

I’ve been VALIDATED!  

There’s a thing now called “Green Exercise”.  I’ve been quietly exercising outdoors for years, and meanwhile Green Exercise has become a big thing with research, experts, instructors – and even institutes and associations.

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These experts have done studies comparing identical activities done indoors and outdoors.  The research results are very interesting – and actually validate what I’ve experienced in my own health journey for years. 

What exactly is Green Exercise?

Green Exercise is defined as ‘physical activity in the presence of Nature’.  Research shows that there may be additional health benefits to exercise if it takes place in natural environments, as opposed to indoors or in an urban setting.

According to the National Institutes of Health, because our hunter-gatherer ancestors existed in a natural environment, present-day humans are born with an innate affiliation with Nature.  

The proven benefits of spending time outdoors are so great that organizations around the world are beginning to use “eco-therapy” or “forest therapy” to help patients with depression and anxiety or even with cancer.  

 
In the US, the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs has been established specifically for practitioners who prescribe green therapy.

 

Why Is Being in Nature Good For Us?
 
Some suggested causes are below:
 
Hiking the W Trek in Patagonia

1. Stronger Connection.  Outdoors, we feel more connected with Nature and other people.  

2. Awakened Senses. All senses are open and alive outdoors. We feel the weather, hear birds and the wind, taste sea air, smell grass or flowers, feel the sun and touch the earth. 

3. Physical Challenge. The natural ground is uneven, and terrain can be unpredictable. We need to pay attention and use our bodies to navigate – unlike when we exercise on the even surfaces of an indoor gym.

4. Digital Detox. Modern living is filled with digital stimulation, urban noise and pollution, traffic and technology.  Being in Nature allows us to disconnect and recharge.

5. Soothing Color. In Nature, we are often immersed in green and blue colors. Exposure to these colors (especially green) seems to have a simultaneously calming and energizing effect. 

Top Benefits of Green Exercise

According to the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults need 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.  The guidelines for older adults or those with chronic health issues are a little bit different, but everyone can benefit from time spent outdoors.

Research shows proven benefits of spending time outdoors include:

Glacier-fed lake in Patagonia, Chile
 
  • Stress relief
  • Clearer thinking
  • Increased Self-confidence
  • More Energy
  • Better Stamina
  • Improved Sleep

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