Have you ever felt refreshed after a walk in the garden, as though you could think more clearly and felt more at peace than before? You will be glad to know that science can now explain this phenomenon. Research shows that spending time outdoors is a potent remedy for many of the issues we face in our modern lifestyles and societies.  And it’s not just a lack of vitamin D we are talking about! Here at Raymark, we wanted to remind you of the many benefits that the outdoors offer :

Lowering stress levels and blood pressure

Research has shown that spending time outdoors helps to reduce stress levels. Your body produces less cortisol (the main stress-inducing hormone) when you are out in nature. This, in turn, helps to attenuate other stress-related issues such as high blood pressure and an increased heart rate. The physical conditions of stress are alleviated, leading to a more relaxed mental and physical state.

Attenuating mental fatigue

When your thoughts are muddled up and your ability to concentrate or think clearly are challenged, it may be that you are suffering from mental fatigue.  The solution? Take a few minutes out of your day to enjoy the outdoors; try to catch a few sun rays and walk among some trees. Because studies suggest that people who are exposed to the natural scenery have their mental energy restored as a result.

Making you happier

That’s right! Mother Nature has the power to make you happier. Serotonin, also known as the “Happy chemical”, is the main neurotransmitter responsible for making us feel happy. Studies have noted that serotonin levels are boosted when you are outdoors, making you happier. This is in part thanks to sunlight (which improves our mood) and to physical activities that we naturally engage in while outside.

Helping to regulate your inner clock

Your inner clock or circadian rhythm is finely attuned to Nature’s own pace. Spending too much time holed up indoors disrupts your rhythm and can have negative impacts on your sleep pattern and sleep quality. Research shows that exposure to sunlight (30-60 minutes) helps set our internal clocks which, in turn, helps us sleep better.

Improving the quality of overall health and lifespan

Studies suggest that people who spend time in natural environments are less likely to suffer from a variety of diseases than people who don’t. Another study notes that increased exposure to the great outdoors can result in a lower mortality rate.

Having the best relaxation experience

Aria chair from Italian designer Nardi

We have always known that Nature was indispensable to our lives and health. Nature resets both the mind and body, making natural surroundings the ultimate relaxation experience. Here at Raymark, we want to provide you with the best outdoor furniture in order to amplify that experience. We want to help you have a dedicated relaxation spot when you get back from work, someplace where you can unwind and let go of the day’s worries.

Each of our products is brought to you with that intention in mind. If you would like to learn more about them, you can visit our online gallery or contact us with any questions you might have.

Sources :

http://sunlightinstitute.org/sleep-deprivation-metabolic-syndrome-and-sunlight/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2566234/

https://www.pnas.org/content/112/28/8567.full

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/a-prescription-for-better-health-go-alfresco