Don’t forget to go outside…

Today is Earth Day, and while many of us are distracted with news about COVID-19, stimulus, oil futures, or whatever else there may be, we can’t forget that it is important to get outside and enjoy the sunshine and nature.

In fact, research shows that getting outside is good for your mental health, and we could all use some improved mental health right now.

According to WebMD, simply going outside and enjoying nature contributes to the following:

• It helps you get exercise, and exercise can improve your overall health, including your mental health;
• It helps you get Vitamin D which is important for bone health, blood cells, and your immune system;
• It lessens anxiety – and let’s be honest, there is a lot of anxiety right now with the current circumstances;
• It improves your focus – if you’re stuck at home working and just can’t focus long enough, take a walk for 10 or 15 minutes. You’ll find your focus renewed.
• It gives you better immunity – and who wouldn’t want better immunity right now..?!

There are many other benefits of going outside mentioned by WebMD. Feel free to head over and check them out (WebMD Source Link).

Give back to the planet!

One of the best things you can do today to celebrate Earth Day, and to have an excuse to get outside and enjoy the benefits and beauty of nature, is to give back to the Earth in a meaningful way. Here are a few ideas:

• Plant a tree (Home Depot, Lowes, and many other hardware stores are open as essential businesses – if your local nursery is open, support small business and get a tree from them)
• Plant flowers – this is a simple, cost effective, and tremendous way to beautify the world around you.
• Take pictures of nature and post them online to share the beauty with others.
• Contribute to a foundation that supports beautifying the earth (here’s a short list)
• Start a garden – an easy and cost effective way to produce your own organic fruits and vegetables

So, while you’re spending time wondering what you can do to fill your time, or stressing out about the economy, coronavirus, or a million other things, remember to get outside, improve your mental and physical health, and give back to the beautiful world God created for us all to enjoy.

Happy Earth Day!