Fitness Expert Nancy Donahue Talks About How Being Outdoors Benefits Your Body and Your Brain
June 6, 2016
by Nancy Donahue
GOOD LIFE GAL


I’ve always been a lover of the outdoors. Being outside makes me happy. And I know exercise plays a crucial component in maintaining optimal health and wellness. Now that there’s more evidence supporting the science behind nature being the best place to workout, I’m all about spreading the word! Studies show being outside and breathing in fresh air is a wonderful way to kick your body and your brain into high gear.
In fact, a study from Glasgow University showed that people who walked, biked, or ran in nature had a lower risk of poor mental health than people who worked out inside.
Besides the fact that it just feels good to be one with nature, the great outdoors is also beneficial for stress reduction. And who couldn’t use a little less stress these days? Research has shown that being outdoors naturally lowers your heart rate and can help increase relaxation. It’s no wonder that I’d rather be in plank pose at the park than in my living room.
Being with nature is also a great way to get your daily dose of Vitamin D––AKA the sunshine vitamin. Vitamin D supports our immune systems and promotes healthy bones and teeth, and can reduce blood pressure too. So, while you are catching some rays, you’re getting all of those positive benefits too––just be sure to protect yourself with sunscreen.
If that’s not enough to get your outdoor fix, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, our indoor environment is two to five times more toxic than our outdoor environment, and in some cases, the air inside can be 100 times more polluted.
So get your green on. Whether it’s swimming, golfing, bicycling, yoga at the park, or walking on the beach, make getting outside your next guilty pleasure. Your body––and your brain––will thank you in countless ways!
Nancy Donahue
An author, entrepreneur, actress, fitness instructor, volunteer, health advocate, and mother, Nancy is a former super model, as well as an accomplished tri-athlete, NSCA and ACE certified trainer, YogaFit RYT and Pilates instructor. Nancy is Managing Partner/Co-Founder at Bellecore. The BelleCore bodybuffer helps to sooth sore muscles, helps with muscle recovery, lymphatic drainage, exfoliation and diminishes signs of cellulite.

Hello there! This article could not be written much better!
Going through this article reminds me of my previous roommate!
He constantly kept talking about this. I’ll forward this article to him.
Fairly certain he’ll have a good read. I appreciate you for sharing!
Thanks Jason! I am a huge believer in exercise in the great outdoors. First thing I do every day! Relieves stress and gets me ready for my day!
You’re on top of the game. Thanks for sharing.
Great Article, Nancy! I AGREE with everything you have shared and am looking forward to yoga in the park today 😉 Let’s plan an outdoor fitness event together.
I want to come! XO
I’m impressed by your writing. Are you a professional or just very knoleedgeablw?
HI Dale!
Thank you so much and YES, I would love to organize yoga in the park! I will get back to you on this great idea. Have a great day!
Nancy
Nice article and form
Thank you John!
Nothing feels better then some sun on your skin