Outdoor Movement

​There are many outdoor activities to engage in during the winter months. Numerous studies have found that the health benefits of exercising outdoors in colder temperatures can actually outweigh those that you experience in warmer months. For instance, cold weather may actually improve endurance because your heart doesn't have to work as hard, you sweat less, and expend less energy, all of which means you exercise more efficiently.

OUTDOOR MOVEMENT IMPROVES MOOD
Stress is relieved within minutes of exposure to nature as measured by muscle tension, blood pressure, and brain activity. Time in green spaces significantly reduces cortisol, which is a stress hormone. Spending time in nature also boosts endorphin levels and dopamine production, which promote happiness.


OUTDOOR MOVEMENT BOOSTS ENERGY LEVEL
Research suggests a great way to get energized is to connect with nature. People with a greater sense of vitality don’t just have more energy for things they want to do, they are also more resilient to physical illness. One of the pathways to health may be to spend more time in nature.


OUTDOOR MOVEMENT BOOSTS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Physical activity gives your immune system a power surge for a full 24 hours, and a stronger immune system leads to less illness. Your immune system responds to exercise by producing more of the blood cells that attack bacterial invaders. Also, people who take regular walks in the woods have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, lower blood pressure and a slower heart rate.


OUTDOOR WINTER ACTIVITIES:
• Snowball fights
• Build a snowman
• Walking or hiking
• Shoveling snow
• Snow tubing or sledding
• Ice skating
• Downhill or Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing