Time Outside
Kids and adults alike are spending more and more time stuck in stale offices and classrooms, trying to keep up with a fast paced, technology driven lifestyle. In the past 20 years, the average amount of time spent in the classroom and office has increased by 2 hours per day. This isn’t helping our overall health and well-being. Research shows that children who spend more time in green spaces have lower stress levels and fewer attention deficit symptoms. Exposure to nature offers exercise and socialization opportunities that cannot be replicated inside and for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, this is extremely beneficial. What are some other benefits of outside time?
- Improved digestion
- Improved mood and mental alertness
- Immunity strengthening
- Cleansing of the lungs
- Improved blood pressure and heart rate
Head outside and soak in some fresh, clean oxygen as we head into spring and warmer summer weather. Here are a few ideas:
- Hit up the local farmers’ market
- Look for outdoor concerts or live music in your town
- Local parks often offer structured hiking or nature exploration opportunities
- Find a restaurant that offers al fresco dining or take your home cooked meal outside
- Set up a family space outside that offers your whole family a little retreat: comfy chairs, shade, good books and music
- Take family movie night outside: head to the drive-in or take your iPad out to the deck to enjoy a flick under the stars
- Enter a local walk or run for charity. Consider the League School’s Walk/Run for Autism on April 9!Time
