By Mercedes Korngut and Anastasia Korngut | Co-Founders, Smallbitsofhappiness.com
In a world that moves at lightning speed and where being busy is the norm, it’s all too tempting to remain indoors for the majority, engaging in activities like binge-watching shows, scrolling through social media, or playing video games. While these pastimes can certainly fill the quiet moments, stepping outside for a walk offers a myriad of benefits that can greatly enhance our well-being. This is a well-known fact, often emphasized to us. However, we decided to investigate the specific advantages of outdoor walks in depth, and what we uncovered has shifted our outlook on the importance of venturing outside.
We’ve categorized the numerous advantages of walking outdoors into several key sections:
Physical Activity
Engaging in outdoor walks counts as exercise. Physical activity prompts the release of endorphins, often referred to as happiness hormones, and reduces cortisol levels, which is linked to stress. Additionally, exercising allows us to redirect our thoughts away from stressors, transforming emotional tension into physical movement.
Sun Exposure
The sun provides energy and plays a vital role in recalibrating our circadian rhythm, essentially helping our bodies recognize optimal sleep times. Beyond this, sunlight has a host of other benefits. It boosts our mood by stimulating the production of serotonin and increases our vitamin D levels, which is crucial for strong bones, a robust immune system, and overall health. Just 15 minutes of outdoor walking can make a significant impact on your vitamin D intake.
Boosting Vitamin N (Nature)
Interestingly, the term “Vitamin N” has been coined by researchers to denote the health advantages of interacting with nature. Similar to nutrients from food, spending time in natural environments is highly beneficial for our health. Even brief experiences outdoors can bolster our immune systems, spark creativity by restoring our ability to concentrate, enhance vision, and much more, all of which can be further explored in this BIT.
Fostering Connections
Looking to bond with a loved one? Invite them for a walk or stroll over to their home or a designated meeting spot. Alternatively, if you desire some solitude after a hectic day, with your parents’ approval, head out for a walk close to home on your own. Walking with another person not only allows us to enjoy the physical and mental perks of walking but also provides an opportunity to reconnect and deepen our relationships. This interaction releases oxytocin, another of the body’s happiness hormones, which boosts our spirits.
With compelling scientific evidence backing the importance of outdoor activities, especially walking, it’s evident that integrating time spent outside into our daily schedules is crucial for our overall health. Whether it’s enjoying a walk in the park, navigating a trail in the woods, or meandering along the beach, connecting with the outdoors helps us appreciate nature’s countless benefits.
ABOUT THE TEENAGE AUTHORS
Mercedes Korngut, Co-Founder & CEO
Mercedes is a passionate teenager dedicated to assisting her peers in discovering small joys in their everyday lives. She serves as the producer and co-host of the podcast “Hack Your Happiness” and oversees the editing of all Small Bits of Happiness media videos. Additionally, she contributes to various North American magazines, focusing on themes surrounding happiness and the connection between parents and teens.
Anastasia Korngut, Co-Founder & COO
Anastasia is a creative fashion designer with a strong passion for her craft, leading the design department at Small Bits of Happiness. She focuses on intentional innovation, striving to create products that uplift daily moods. Additionally, Anastasia manages social media efforts and co-hosts the podcast “Hack Your Happiness.”
Discover more tips on finding moments of happiness at smallbitsofhappiness.com.
