How Sleeping Outside Can Make You Healthier and Happier

9 years ago | Posted in: Health | 6052 Views

Camping is a fun pastime that many people enjoy. In addition to the fun of roughing it, however, there are also health benefits that you can reap by sleeping outside. Whether you are sleeping in Yellowstone National Park or setting up a tent in your backyard, the benefits of sleeping outside on a regular basis can help you feel healthier, manage stress more efficiently and may even help you reconnect with your loved ones.

Reset Your Sleep Schedule

If you find it difficult to sleep or have started going to sleep later than usual, you can reset your body’s natural Circadian rhythm by simply sleeping outside for a short period of time. Studies have shown the people suffering from sleep or mood disorders benefit greatly from exposure to natural light and by avoiding artificial light. Natural light reduces depression and triggers the release of melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone that causes sleepiness, and is vital for regulating sleep cycles.

Avoid using handheld devices if you are trying to reset your sleep schedule, as studies have shown looking at a bright screen reduces the ability to fall asleep for up to two hours. Instead, count the stars after nightfall and use devices before the sun sets.

Reduce Stress

Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress in many studies. For instance, hospital patients provided with natural scenery, such as an image of trees, reported less pain and stress after surgery than others. Nature triggers feelings of both mental and physical well-being. In fact, spending time outdoors has been shown to relieve the symptoms of PTSD among soldiers.

PTSD, or post traumatic stress disorder, is a serious condition that occurs after experiencing a traumatic event. Studies show that spending time outdoors also enhances social functioning and overall life outlook among those suffering from PTSD. You don’t have to have a serious stress-related disorder to enjoy the benefits of nature. Sleeping outside can help you recover from any type of stress by promoting feelings of physical and mental well-being.

Exposure to Cool Temperatures

Sleeping outdoors isn’t just a summer activity. Cold weather promotes the production and activity of brown fat, which is the type of fat that regulates body temperature. If you struggle to stay warm in winter, or fight to stay cool in the summer, sleeping outdoors in chilly temperatures helps your body regulate its temperature more efficiently.

If you are planning on sleeping outside in cooler temperatures, come prepared with high-calorie snacks and a sleeping bag that is recommended for the temperature. Unless you are experienced, do not sleep outdoors in extreme temperatures. A cool or slightly chilly temperature is enough to kick your metabolism on and promote the activation of brown fat.

Reconnect With Loved Ones

Spending time outdoors limits distractions, giving you the opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones. If you have children, sleeping outside is even more beneficial. Children who spend a lot of time outdoors have more consistent sleep schedules, have improved concentration and focus and are more likely to spend time exercising than children who spend most of their time indoors. When spending time outdoors with loved ones, keep the devices put away until you return home to make the most of the time you have together.

Reconnect With Yourself

Sleeping outdoors alone is an excellent exercise in spending time formulating your own ideas, beliefs, goals and aspirations. People are exposed to stimulation every day, nearly all day long, and this constant barrage of information can make it difficult to ponder your path in life. If you are a little intimidated by sleeping at a campground, opt for a tent in the backyard. Sleeping outside allows you to come back to your life feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

 

By: Vincent StokesĀ 

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