There are many reasons you may opt to stay in rather than go outside, especially as we continue to live through a global pandemic. Whether it’s for social distancing, depressed mood, social or general anxiety, lack of time or just trying to stay out of the sun, sometimes you may just not be up for it.
However, humans are social creatures that can significantly benefit from not only being outdoors, but connecting to others.
So it’s no wonder why the mental health of so many Americans suffered while we were in quarantine. Did you know that according to one study, the percentage of adults in the US that suffer from anxiety or depression symptoms went from 11% in January 2019 to 41% in January 2021? And that’s just the people who reported it! Imagine how many countless others there are that have also been quietly struggling.
Maybe you’re even one of them.
With this giant example of how big of an impact going outdoors and connecting to others makes on our mental health, it’s more important than ever that we all make it a priority to get outside. Luckily for us, it’s even easier to do this while living in St. Petersburg, Florida. In other areas of the country, people are confined to only a few months when they can comfortably explore the great outdoors and make use of all that nature has to offer. We, however, have the chance to go outdoors all year round!
The sun itself works actual magic on our bodies.
Getting enough Vitamin D through your diet is pretty tough, so incorporating the sun into your self care routine is key. Health vitamin D levels can help with symptoms of psoriasis, eczema, and dry skin. It can also help prevent premature aging, promote cell regrowth, prevent osteoporosis, and reduce skin inflammation. While remembering to use sunscreen if you’ll be outside for more than 15 minutes, not only do the benefits of the sun include helping your body run more efficiently, but helps your skin remain healthier in general. 
Not a fan of the strong Florida sun?
Don’t let that stop you from getting some fresh air. Perhaps an evening walk is more your speed, or just sitting under a covered patio or lanai. There really is something to the whole “get some fresh air” phrase. Fresh air gives you access to more oxygen, and when your lungs are working at full capacity and sending more oxygen into your blood, your body is more rejuvenated.
Your brain is also very sensitive to oxygen level shifts.
Did you know that the brain uses almost three times more oxygen than your muscles do to maintain healthy neuron function? Knowing this, try to remember to give yourself the opportunity to head outdoors during the work day for a quick walk or simply some deep breaths. Staying cooped up indoors can significantly impact your brain’s ability to grow and function properly.
Spending time outside can not only improve your mental health it can also promote exercise.
Think about it… if you’re outside it’s often to do something like jogging, going for a bike ride, playing a sport, swimming, taking your dog for a walk, gardening or doing some other kind of lawn or home care. Exercise not only provides you with endorphins and energy, but helps improve your mood! It promotes better sleep, helps moderate blood pressure, and makes your body stronger. Sounds like a win-win!
St. Petersburg provides endless outdoor activities.
From the beautiful gulf beaches, to the lush nature preserves like Sawgrass Lake Park, beer gardens like Green Bench Brewing or eateries such as Casita Taqueria, there have never been more fun ways to get outdoors than in St. Petersburg. There’s also plenty of organized group sports like kickball leagues and rollerblading/roller skating clubs like the Sunday Bladers. Whatever you like to do, take it outside and let nature do its thing.
What if you need more support?
Being outdoors can do wonders for your mental and physical health, but sometimes that isn’t enough. If you find yourself in need of more assistance with improving your mental health, we are here for you. Therapy can help fill in the blanks and offer you more personalized and holistic care. Let us help you in helping yourself feel your absolute best.
Ready to Start Individual Therapy in St. Pete?
Beginning the journey to your best self is easier than most of the things we’re all doing right now! Therapy does not have to wait. You can get the mental health support you need with a skilled therapist in St. Pete or with online therapy in Florida. To begin, just follow these simple steps:
- Contact us to request an appointment
- Meet with one of our experienced therapists.
- Get support & begin your journey toward mental wellness & connection today!
Other Mental Health and Wellness Services at ME-Therapy
At ME-Therapy, we believe in the importance of mental, emotional & physical wellbeing. Our therapists want to help your mind but also want to feed your soul. This means we take a holistic approach to mental health. In order to do this, we offer a wide range of mental health services in our St. Petersburg office and online including therapy for women, therapy for men, trauma therapy, and holistic, spiritual therapy. For couples and relationships, we want you to know that our relationship therapists are here for you ALL. In addition to marriage counseling, we provide sex therapy, affair recovery counseling, and poly-friendly kink-aware therapy.
