Boost Your Brain by Getting Outside!

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing

After my first winter in Sweden, I made an intentional effort to go outside with my family, no matter the weather. ☀️🌧️❄️

That first winter was brutal, with very low temperatures and barely any sunshine. I didn’t want to leave the warm indoors. Then a Swedish friend told me these wise words: There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.

Now, if you visit my home close to fall, you will see me take out the proper clothing for the upcoming colder seasons: hats, gloves, scarves, boots, coats, and thick sweaters. 🧥🧣 Setting up an area near the door helps to motivate my family of 7 to go out, even when the weather isn’t perfect.

Going outside has many benefits, including boosting Vitamin D exposure and strengthening immune systems. There is a brain-boosting benefit, too!

Improve your mental health with the outdoors

According to a study performed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), walking led to increased creativity in 81% of participants, with the best results coming from walking outdoors. It is not hard to see why: The endorphin-releasing effect of physical exertion with the stimulation of a physical landscape – a snow-covered landscape or an ice-covered river or lake – is an amazing combination.

I have experienced these benefits to my mental health during the fall and winter months by intentionally making time to experience the outdoors.

How do you boost your mental health during the colder months?

Want more brain-friendly tips?

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