As kids, many of us spent entire days outside riding bikes, jumping through sprinklers, or just watching the clouds. But when was the last time you played outside as an adult? 

Many of us are too busy to spend hours a day outside. But Julie Manuel, clinical program manager at Kettering Health Behavioral Medical Center, says that even just five minutes can drastically improve our well-being. 

Mindfulness 

One benefit of being outside, Julie says, is connecting with the world around us.

“We are a fast-paced society, and most of us are in front of screens all day long,” Julie says. “We’re trying to engage people in becoming more present.” 

Julie encourages us to spend time in nature to engage our senses. Ask yourself, “What are two things I can see? Two things I can hear? Two things I can smell?” 

This is known as mindfulness—a term that might sound complicated, but it’s as simple as being aware of the moment you’re in. 

“What’s great about mindfulness activities and reconnecting with the outdoors,” Julie says, “is that it gives you the intention to become aware of your surroundings and slow down.” 

Sensory overload

Do you ever feel suddenly irritated because there are too many sounds around you or because the fluorescent lights in your office are overwhelming? 

This is known as sensory overload—the overstimulation of one or more of the senses. And it can cause mental and physical fatigue as well as muscle tension. These symptoms often make it difficult to function productively and positively.

“That begins to cause dysfunction in our lives,” Julie says. “Then we start to have symptoms of anxiety and maybe depressive symptoms.”

Sometimes all it takes to reduce sensory overload is to remove yourself from the environment causing it. But when that isn’t enough to calm your senses, Julie says sitting in the sunshine and breathing in fresh air can help. 

Make exercise fun 

Exercise is good for both our physical and mental health, and Julie encourages us to find ways to be active outside to enjoy nature as much as possible. 

Whether it’s cycling, hiking, kayaking, or rollerblading, find something that brings out your inner child. As adults, we often take life too seriously. Let go and embrace playing outside. 

“I’m a big proponent of joy,” Julie says, “and I think being outside can bring that joy.”