We are big advocates of encouraging all residents to leave their units and enjoy the beautiful green space provided at the village. Spending regular time in daylight and nature is critical for maintaining good health and well-being as we age. It provides benefits for our physical health, mental health, and social connections.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of staying indoors, watching TV, or reading a book. However, research has shown that spending time outdoors in nature is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. One of the most important factors in this is sunlight exposure.
Sunlight plays a critical role in regulating our body’s hormonal balance, affecting our mood, sleep, stress response, and overall health. Exposure to sunlight helps to regulate our body’s production of melatonin, which is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). It also stimulates the production of serotonin, which helps to regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. Additionally, sunlight exposure, especially in the morning, helps to regulate cortisol levels, which is essential for stress management. And, for maintaining strong bones and muscle mass, sunlight exposure has been linked to increased production of testosterone.
However, sunlight exposure isn’t the only reason why we should spend time outdoors. Natural environments have repeatedly been linked to improved mood and decreased levels of stress and anxiety. This is because nature has a calming effect on the mind and body, allowing us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Moreover, spending time outdoors in nature also provides an opportunity for movement and exercise. Whether it’s a gentle walk, gardening, or other outdoor activities, movement is essential for maintaining mobility and flexibility as we age.
And let’s not forget about the social benefits of spending time in nature. We know that socialising is essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Time spent outdoors provides us with an opportunity to connect with others in the community, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chat.
In summary, spending regular time in daylight and nature is crucial for maintaining good health and well-being. Spending time outdoors in nature also provides an opportunity for movement and exercise, and it has repeatedly been linked to improved mood and decreased levels of stress and anxiety.
Step into the sun today and optimise your overall health and well-being.
