We spend about one-third of our lives sleeping and taking good naps. Having enough sleep is one of the key components of a successful day. But what if you’re having a hard time falling asleep? Or worse, you’re not getting enough sleep?
Maybe it’s because you’re spending too much of your time indoors. Try the outdoors, then! Okay, we know. Even though spending more time outside sounds sexy, you might worry that you won’t look your best when you’re all sweaty and unkempt.
You might think it’s better to stay at home and do your exercises there with that concern. But hey, quality sleep is a pillar of good health, and so is exercise. Why not hit those two birds with one stone by stepping out of that door for a jog, a cycle, or outdoor yoga? We listed down four reasons to help you get motivated the next time you exercise. You’ll thank us later in your dreams!
#1. You Get More Sunlight
One thing we should know about our bodies is that they are smart. If it knows how to fight antibodies and knows how to heal your knee scrapes and other wounds naturally – it’s also smart enough to know the concept of day and night.
We have this thing called the circadian rhythm. It’s a way for our bodies to adjust to night and day. It’s the simple reason behind why we generally feel awake in the day and sleepy during the night. But with modern technology, our bodies get confused with so much artificial light. This is why it’s perfect to do your exercises outdoors because it is a way to tell your body, “Hey, it’s morning, let’s save the sleeping time for later!”
#2. It Tires You Out
This is probably the most apparent reason why outdoor exercises can give you better sleep. Walking or cycling either with a regular bike or an electric bike can easily make you feel tired. You work yourself out in the day until it sucks the energy out of you. Once done, your body will need some time to repair itself by sleeping.
With the added heat of the sunlight, you’d be more tired and sweaty just enough to crave for that sweet, sweet bedtime. But hey, just try not to sleep in the middle of the day! It might be tempting, but you must save all that precious sleep for later. Don’t worry, it will be worth it.
#3. Reduces Stress to Help You Sleep Better
Apart from tiring you out, we all know that exercise can help reduce anxiety in general. Having a good workout has physical health benefits and provides mental relief from everyday stress and anxiety.
Outdoor exercises can help you release endorphins to boost your mood and reduce stress after a good round of exercise. You’ll see the difference almost immediately when you try exercising outside! What better way to end the day with a good night’s sleep from all the hard work you’ve done for the whole day, right?
#4. It’s more fun!
This is just a bonus out of the promising effects of exercising outdoors.
There are special perks and a different form of spontaneous adventure when you spend your time outside. Compared to an indoor environment, you know exactly what to expect. You might also fall into a monotonous kind of living when you practice a routine in the same indoor environment as always. And it won’t be as exciting as performing activities outdoors.
Doing your exercise outdoors is different. Since you are in an uncontrolled environment, almost everything is a surprise! You’ll probably meet an old friend, pet a cute puppy, see the flowers in full bloom and even just simply inhale some fresh air. Exercising outside is truly a whole other experience that everyone should do for themselves, not just out of recreation but also out of necessity.
See? Outdoor exercises aren’t only inherently good for you, but they give you the deepest, calmest, and quietest sleep. If you want the best results, try taking a warm cup of chamomile tea before sleeping to maximize the results.
A series of good habits form good health, and exercising outside crosses out at least two on the list. So slather up with sunscreen and do your workouts outdoors! You’ll be amazed at what this simple change will do to your overall health!
By Trevor James
About the author:
Trevor James is the founder and owner of Electric Bike Paradise, a one-stop shop for all your electric bicycle needs. He has been selling bicycles, electric bikes, and electric scooters online since 2010 and eventually established Electric Bike Paradise in late 2013 when he happened to meet a seller from Craiglist that introduced him to electric bikes. Ever since Trevor spent time searching for electric bikes online but couldn’t find a single website that offers a wide selection of bikes and informational articles. That is why he decided to start a website where everyone can shop conveniently, browse buying guides, and read educational posts. The website is called Electric Bike Paradise.
