Many people feel bogged down by their daily routines, whether it’s work or family responsibilities. That’s why it can be so tempting to escape outdoors for a little bit of fresh air. In terms of your general well-being, it’s actually a great idea. In this article, we’ll discuss how outdoor activities can improve your focus and help you get back on track.
Some Specific Examples
Kayaking
For kayakers, being able to focus on the task at hand is essential for success. There are many different kayaking techniques that can help you improve your focus, and here are just a few examples:
- Paddling with one arm
- Counting strokes
- Focusing on your breath
Additionally, kayaking can improve your balance and coordination. There’s no need to put your back out when transporting kayaks, either. You can find the perfect kayak trailer online, reading specialist reviews and Amazon prices, as well as technical specs, pros and cons, and photos. You can also learn about tire and wheel size, tongue length, suspension systems, and storage and assembly.
Jogging
By increasing the amount of oxygen that flows to your brain, jogging helps to improve your mental clarity and focus. Jogging requires you to pay attention to your breath, your strides, and your surroundings. If you can focus on all of these things, you’ll be able to improve your running form and performance.
Hiking
Hiking brings similar benefits to jogging, and it also requires you to be aware of obstacles in your path – like roots, rocks, and branches. If you can focus on all of these things, you’ll be able to hike safely and efficiently. Additionally, hiking can also improve your stamina and endurance because it’s a long-distance activity.
Skiing
When you’re skiing, you need to be aware of the terrain, the other skiers around you, and your own movements. As with kayaking, skiing can also help to improve your balance and coordination.
Reduced Stress Levels
When people become stressed they often experience an increase of adrenaline in their bodies. In turn, it can be hard to concentrate, and they can become unproductive at work. When people are stressed, they often feel like they’re in a rut and stuck in their ways. One way outdoor activities can address this is by providing a change of scenery. Going outside and experiencing new things can help break this feeling of being trapped. Once the mind has been cleared by fresh air, it will be more able to focus efficiently.
Outdoor activities can also give people a chance to socialize. Being around others can help take the focus off whatever is causing our stress. This is because spending time with others allows for distraction and communication. When people are distracted, they often forget about their stressors altogether. And, when they communicate with others, they may find that their problems aren’t as big as they seem – or their friends may bring some practical solutions. In turn, things will become clearer for the person and they will become less overwhelmed or unfocused.
Improved Sleep
According to the National Sleep Foundation, people should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Sadly, a lot of people don’t get enough sleep, whether it’s because of work, family, or just life in general. When this happens over a long period people can’t focus and they become irritable. Research has shown that sleep deprivation is one of the leading causes of accidents and errors in the workplace. A lack of sleep can also lead to other health problems like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
One study found that participants who were active outside had shorter sleep onset latencies (the amount of time it takes to fall asleep), longer sleep duration, and improved overall sleep quality. When you’re well-rested, your mind is able to function at its best and your focus, concentration, and memory become enhanced.
Regular Breaks
We all know the feeling of being bogged down by work. We’ve been staring at the same screen for hours, trying to will ourselves to focus on the task at hand. But no matter how hard we try, our minds just won’t cooperate. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to step away from your desk and take a break.
When you walk away from your work, you’re giving yourself a chance to clear your head and refresh your perspective. It might seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks will actually help you get more done in the long run.
Physical Activity
As we’ve already discussed, outdoor activities can reduce stress and improve peoples’ state of mind. It does this by releasing endorphins, which are chemicals that have mood-boosting effects. Outdoor activities are a great way to get some exercise and improve your mental wellbeing at the same time.
When people exercise regularly, they not only feel better but also think more clearly. This is because exercise has cognitive benefits as well as physical ones. Studies have shown that exercise can improve brain function, including memory and executive function (the ability to focus and pay attention). There’s no need to go overboard – even moderate amounts of exercise can have cognitive benefits. Always increase your fitness routine gradually and speak to a doctor and personal trainer beforehand.
Connection To Nature
We’ve already mentioned that getting outside can help break up the monotony of your day-to-day routine. Additionally, the sunshine can provide a much-needed dose of vitamin D (which has been linked to improved cognitive function). And lastly, being in nature has been shown to lower stress levels and increase feelings of well-being – both of which can lead to better focus. Tests have even demonstrated that indoor plants can make people feel more relaxed and productive at work.
It has now become clear that sitting indoors is not the best way to clear your head and improve your focus. Instead, do something new, take up an outdoor sport, or go somewhere different. By breaking the mold you’ll be able to think out of the box. Your mind will become refreshed, you’ll gain new perspectives and your thinking will become clearer than ever.