Guess what? Getting outdoors is not just about catching that sweet Instagram shot; the experts want us to remember spending time running around outdoors isn’t just a nostalgic throwback to your carefree childhood—it’s a game-changer for your health as you step into midlife and beyond.

Seriously, ladies: outdoor adventures are linked to better physical health, boosted mental wellness, and, let’s be real, an actual social life. Think about it—who doesn’t want to make friends while hiking or playing pickleball outdoors. So, let’s dive into why embracing your inner child and getting outside could totally transform your life. Trust us; your future self will thank you!

Physical Benefits of Outdoor Exercise for Women

Stepping outside for exercise does more than just lift your spirits—it can transform your health in incredible ways! “Did you know that spending just 20 minutes in nature can boost your mood and lower stress levels? That’s not just a throwback to childhood—it’s your path to better health.” Here’s a few more important health benefits…

• Can help avoid need for pharmaceuticals  – lowers blood pressure by an impressive 10–20 mmHg. 
• Keeps your heart happy – reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Your clothes will fit better! Burn 200-300 calories in just 30 minutes.
• Increased energy levels come with improved fitness levels.
• No more energy crashes – improved ability to manage blood glucose level.
• Avoid the pain and health issues brittle bones can create – increased bone density.
• Want a healthy glow? Increased blood flow means skill cells get nourished.

Mental Health Benefits of Nature: Recharge your Mind

Outdoor exercise is more than just a workout—it’s the ultimate recharge for your mental state! A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that “just 20 minutes in nature can significantly improve mood and self-esteem.” That’s right—just 20 minutes! And the benefits don’t stop there…

Fantastic Cortisol Detox! Wave goodbye to stress, getting outdoors slashes cortisol, leaving you feeling balanced, calm, and ready to take on the world. 

Nature’s Prescription; a brisk walk can be as beneficial as time with your therapist. The research indicates it has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression by up to 30% and anxiety by 25%. 

Feel like your brain is stuck in a rut? Step outside, and watch your creative genius come back to life. It’s like hitting the refresh button for your brain. 

Strong body, Strong mind! There’s nothing like conquering a hill (or a trail) to remind yourself how strong and capable you are. Outdoor exercise builds not just muscles but confidence that radiates. 

Has a good night’s sleep become hopelessly elusive? Logging some time in natural light has been shown to regulate circadian rhythms and promote better sleep patterns.  

Be a joiner! Sign Up for a class. 

Forget happy hour—why not bond over some fresh air and endorphins? Whether it’s yoga in the park or boot camp at sunrise or pickleball league, sweating together is the fastest way to build connections.

Start a “Walk & Talk” Club: Easy Exercise, Easy Chats
Tired of scrolling through Facebook to stay in touch? Grab a neighbor or a friend and turn those virtual likes into real-life walks. Bonus: no gym membership needed!

Make an Impact and a Friend: Volunteer

Volunteering outdoors is like friendship with a purpose—and way more meaningful. Find a local community garden, trail clean-up or river restoration project. VolunteerMatch.org or JustServe.org are good places to begin your search. 

Embrace your Inner Adventuress: Get Out of your Comfort Zone

Sometimes getting out of your comfort zone sparks deeper connections with your fellow journeyers and provides good stories to tell. Sometimes the stories are so wild, even your grandkids will raise an eyebrow.

Organize a “Try Something New” Group: 

Novel experiences enhance brain function and sparks creativity, while also creating an instant connection with others who are stepping out of their comfort zones. Round up some adventurous souls and form a crew for trying new things outdoors. Nothing bonds people faster than sharing those first wobbly moments!

Grounding in the here and now. 

When you step outside, focus on engaging all of your senses. The feel of the wind, the sound of birds, the scents around you. Being outdoors pulls you out of your head and grounds you in your body, helping you connect to the here and now.

The ultimate reset
Time spent in nature realigns you with the natural cycles that our bodies are designed to sync with—daylight, fresh air, movement. Studies show that this helps regulate stress hormones, boost mood, and improve your overall sense of well-being. 

Mind-Body Connection is Powerful
Outdoor movement, whether it’s walking, hiking, or yoga, helps you tune in to how your body feels. Nature becomes your guide, encouraging you to slow down, feel the earth beneath your feet, and pay attention to the physical sensations of being alive.

Silence the mind; close the tabs

The calm of outdoor spaces has a way of silencing the constant mental chatter. As your mind quiets, you become more in touch with your inner voice, gaining clarity about who you are and what truly matters. This deeper self-awareness is a key to living in alignment with your authentic self.

Not Outdoorsy? Start Loving Nature with These Simple Steps

So, you’re not exactly a rugged adventurer—no problem! You don’t need to be scaling mountains or camping in the wilderness to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, just a little time outside can have major benefits for your body and mind. Here’s how to ease into it with style, comfort, and a healthy dose of fresh air.

Challenge Yourself to Explore all the Parks in your City: Nature, Light Edition
No need for hiking boots—just grab your sneakers and hit the local park. A stroll through trees and open sky is the ultimate low-commitment nature fix.

Try Outdoor Yoga: Stretch Under the Sky
Outdoor yoga is like zen with a side of fresh air—perfect for those who want their nature calm, not extreme.

Backyard Chill Sessions: Nature Is Closer Than You Think
Grab a refreshing cold one and head outside for 10 minutes—boom, you’ve started your outdoor journey without leaving home. Bonus: sunshine and a bit of breathwork pair beautifully.

Plan a Picnic: Food + Friends + Fresh Air
Fun fact, eating outside triggers your brain’s feel-good chemicals, boosting happiness and relaxation. Grab a blanket or a camp chair, your favorite snacks, and some friends (or a neighbor) for an outdoor picnic that’s all about fun, not fancy.

Start a Garden: Green Thumb Optional
Who says you need acres of land? Start small with a couple of pots or a windowsill herb garden. Watching something grow is oddly satisfying—and a great excuse to get outside. If you’re jonesing for more time in the dirt, find a nearby community garden. 

Find Your Outdoor Adventure Today!

Embracing the outdoors doesn’t require you to be a hardcore adventurer; it’s about finding joy in nature at your own pace. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, a leisurely picnic, or potting a few plants, every step you take outside is a step toward a healthier, happier you. So, shake off the notion that you need to go full wilderness warrior. Get out there, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the magic that awaits just beyond your doorstep. Your next adventure starts with a single step—make the first step today.