10 Unexpected Advantages of Spending Mindful Time in Nature

Whether you are sipping a cold iced tea in your backyard or going on an exciting white water rafting adventure, there are many benefits to taking the time to spend outdoors.

A little fresh air, the sun on your skin, your bare feet in the sand: Spending time in the great outdoors can bring in many small pleasures, leaving us feeling refreshed and energized. Whether you're sipping iced tea in your backyard or going on a thrilling rafting adventure, there are many benefits to taking the time to spend outdoors, some of which may surprise you.

1. Improves Short Term Memory

Who would have thought that a little time with flowers and trees would improve your memory? The University of Michigan conducted a study that found that students who took regular nature walks actually had more time to retain information.

2. Reduces Stress

In a world full of screens, unplugging occasionally and stepping outside can do wonders for stress relief. Nature has a calming effect on our mind, even if it means getting outside for just five minutes a day. As a bonus, get outdoor exercise like jogging, walking, etc. This gets the blood flowing and the heart pumping, another way to reduce stress.

3. Increases Levels of Vitamin D

Of course, too much sunlight can damage your skin and possibly lead to cancer. That said, studies show that 15 to 20 minutes of sunlight a day can help your body absorb vitamin D, which helps build strong bones and fights cancer, type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Lowers the risk of sclerosis.

4. Improves Sleep

Spending time in natural light helps our body better regulate sleep patterns. When the sun goes down, our brain releases the right levels of melatonin to help you get a good night's sleep.

5. Strengthens the Immune System

Research has shown that getting outside and getting enough sunlight can boost the immune system. Take a short walk or have fun outside to fight illness and stay healthy.

6. Increases Happiness

You can find all kinds of outdoor activities for all fitness levels and preferences. Whether it's swimming in the ocean, walking the dog in the park or mountain biking, finding outdoor activities that we love will lift your mood and help you feel happier. In addition, spending time in nature promotes mental health.

7. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation in the body can lead to a variety of conditions, from depression and cancer to autoimmune disorders. One study found that participants who walked in the woods for some time every week had less inflammation in their bodies.

8. Improves Vision

We spend a lot of time looking at screens, which can damage our eyes. Going outside gives rest to our eyes from watching computer, television or smartphone. Australian scientists have also found that children who spend time outside have a reduced risk of developing myopia later in life.

9. Inspires Creativity

Nature comes in many colors, from orange sunsets to foamy green waters and pink gardens. Spending time in the great outdoors gives you the opportunity to be inspired by all the beautiful sights, smells and sounds of the great outdoors. Science also supports this, showing that spending time outside enhances our creativity.

10. Develops a Deeper Sense of Spirituality

Long walks alone in the park provide an opportunity to clear your head and can even serve as a form of meditation. Spending time in nature helps us live in the moment by breathing the air, listening to birds sing, or feeling the grass at our feet. Nature can also teach us valuable lessons and reveal metaphors to help us connect with our spirituality. Seasonal changes reflect the ups and downs in our lives. Meanwhile, a flowing river reminds us of our need to "go with the flow" and navigate the waters of life, so to speak.