Let's Get Outside!!

Summer is in full swing and it’s time to enjoy all that Montana has to offer.  We all look forward to summer here and all the fun that is to be had, but did you know that getting your kids off the couch or out of the house can have great health benefits as well. These health benefits are also great for us parents as well. Here are the reasons why this summer it’s important to dust off the lawn games and get the family outside.

 1.  Everyone benefits from a break. Research indicates that people learn better and faster when their efforts are distributed, rather than concentrated.

2.  Being outside increases focus. In one study 60% of children who played outside worked more and/or fidgeted less on days they played outside.

3.  Natural light improves wellness. Sunlight stimulates the pineal gland and synthesis of vitamin D. This is vital to the immune system, and simply makes us feel better and be more productive.

4.  Playing outside reduces stress. Unstructured physical play is an opportunity to expend energy in a healthy, suitable manner.

5.  Playing outside develops social skills. It provides experience for socialization and communication when children play at a park with other kids.

6.  Exercise is healthy. All children benefit from physical activity, and in fact require it for optimal health.

7.  Physical activity feeds the brain. Thanks to advances in brain research, we now know that most of the brain is activated during physical activity. Movement increases the capacity (and possibly even the number) of blood vessels in the brain. This speeds up the delivery of oxygen, water, and glucose, thereby optimizing the brain’s performance.

 While keeping the family active and playing outside is a great way to keep your family healthy, happy, and is a great way to bond with each other, injuries can occur. Those bumps and falls will occur while playing outside so it is always a good idea to have your children and yourselves checked for spinal misalignments by your family chiropractor. Keeping your spine and nervous system functioning properly will allow you to benefit from all the great things playing outside has to offer. So, now that summer is officially here, start thinking of getting outside with the family. The family that plays outside together will grow healthy together.

~ Dr. Ali