Fresh Air & Fun: How Getting Outside Can Improve the Health and Well-Being of Mums and Babies
Introduction:
There are many benefits to getting outside, both for adults and children. For babies, spending time in nature can help them develop their senses, learn about the world around them, and even boost their immune system. It can also be a great way for parents to relax and de-stress.
For me, I find that if I haven’t spent some time outside in a while I do start to feel more on edge, I don’t cope with things as well and a little bit off. So I know that to get out of the house in the fresh air (even if it’s freezing!), in the sunshine (no matter how much) really gives me a boost. I then feel more motivated to get some things done, especially in winter.
In this blog post, we will discuss the many benefits of getting outside for both mums and babies. We will also provide some tips for making the most of your time outdoors.
Benefits of Getting Outside for Mums
Reduces stress and anxiety. Spending time in nature has been shown to have a number of benefits for mental health, including reducing stress and anxiety. This is because being in nature can help to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels.
Improves mood. Being outdoors can also improve your mood. This is because exposure to sunlight helps to increase serotonin levels, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation.
Boosts energy levels. Getting some fresh air and sunshine can also help to boost your energy levels. This is because sunlight helps to produce vitamin D, which is essential for energy production.
Improves sleep quality. Spending time outdoors in the evening can help to improve your sleep quality. This is because exposure to natural light helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, which is your body's internal clock.
Promotes physical activity. Being outdoors is a great way to get some physical activity, which is important for both physical and mental health. There are many different ways to be active outdoors, such as walking, hiking, biking, and swimming.
Benefits of Getting Outside for Babies
Promotes sensory development. Being outdoors exposes babies to a variety of new sights, sounds, smells, and textures, which can help to promote their sensory development. This is important for their overall development, as it helps them to learn about the world around them.
Encourages exploration. Being outdoors gives babies the opportunity to explore their surroundings, which can help to develop their curiosity and sense of adventure. This is important for their overall development, as it helps them to learn and grow.
Boosts the immune system. Exposure to dirt and germs can help to boost babies' immune systems. This is because it helps them to develop antibodies that can fight off infection.
Improves sleep quality. Babies who spend time outdoors tend to sleep better at night. This is likely because exposure to natural light helps to regulate their circadian rhythm.
Foster a love of nature. Spending time outdoors can help babies to develop a love of nature. This is important, as it can encourage them to be more active and healthy in the future.
How Soon Can I Take My Baby Outside?
There are no rules as to when, it really is up to you for when you feel ready. If your child is healthy and dressed accordingly for the weather, get outside. The fresh air and stimulation will be great for both of you. Below are some great tips to help you get outside.
Tips for Getting Outdoors with Baby
Start slowly. If you're new to getting outside with a baby, start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you spend outdoors. This will help your baby to adjust to the new environment and avoid getting overwhelmed.
Find a safe place to go. When you're first starting out, it's best to choose a safe place to go, such as a park or your backyard. This will help you to relax and enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about baby's safety.
Be prepared for anything. It's always a good idea to be prepared for anything when you're going outdoors with your baby. This means packing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a change of clothes.
Make it fun! The most important thing is to make sure that baby is having fun. This means choosing activities that they enjoy and taking breaks when they need them.
Fresh Air & Fun
There are many benefits to getting outside for both mums and babies. By spending time outdoors, you can help to improve your mental and physical health, reduce stress, boost your energy levels, and improve your sleep quality. You can also help baby to develop their senses, learn about the world around them, and boost their immune system. So get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine!
Do you enjoy being outside? What are your favourite things to do in the great outdoors? I'd love to hear! Comment or send an email [email protected]
