Being happy has been the end goal of just about every human being to ever exist. Throughout humanity, humans have searched for true happiness in riches and secular success, power, love or chasing their dreams. Although those things do bring happiness, a much more accessible path to happiness is right in front of us: simply go outside.
As spring rolls around, the long awaited sunny days come back to bless us. This year, let’s really appreciate these moments.
The sun has a multitude of benefits for us. Being exposed to sunlight leads to an increase in serotonin which makes people happier.
Ronald White, a biology teacher at Tualatin High School, added, “Studies have shown that being in nature reduces stress, improves mood and boosts mental health by lowering cortisol levels that can cause anxiety.”
We live in a world where we often turn to our devices when we have free time. Technology gives us a moment of temporary gratification, but we eventually get bored and stop receiving serotonin from it. Experts increasingly say it’s time to get off our phones and enjoy being outside.
“I personally love gardening outside, rain or shine, just to get out and hear a little bit of nature on a regular basis,” White said.
Setting aside time in our daily life to spend moments outdoors is essential. Our bodies are programmed to thrive in nature.
“Sunlight allows our bodies to produce vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Outdoor activities like walking and running release dopamine and endorphins, which make us feel good, while also keeping our bodies strong by improving physical health,” White said.
Life is simply more enjoyable when we take the time to appreciate the world around us. Living in Oregon, there is a beautiful environment surrounding us no matter the season, but this is especially true once the sun comes back.
Here’s some things you can do to really try and get the most out of these sunny spring days:
Wake up early; give yourself a little bit of time before having to rush and start your day.
Take your time and enjoy your morning. Open the blinds, let that natural light in and appreciate the sunlight.
Drink water.
Eat breakfast.
Open the windows and let in some fresh air.
Read a book outside, go on a walk or a run.
Play with your pet and explore areas that you haven’t before.
Stop to smell the flowers, literally.
Meet up with your friends at a park and go somewhere high up to catch a sunset.
Water your plants, and if you don’t have any, go get one.
The Earth is a beautiful place, and we are lucky that we are the ones that get to inhabit such a beautiful ecosystem. So every single day, wake up and appreciate the beauty around you. Our phones are so inconsequential when it comes to everything else. Put that time and energy into bettering your body instead of rotting your brain and burning your retinas with eight hours of screen time.
Being happy is the most fulfilling feeling, and we can feel it every single day. The sacred secret of true joy? Being outside and loving nature in all its forms.
