How Outdoor Play Can Reduce Stress and Boost Happiness

July 1, 2024
How Outdoor Play Can Reduce Stress and Boost Happiness
Dale Sidebottom

Do you remember the sheer joy of playing outside as a kid? Outdoor play remains a potent force for well-being. Here’s the science-backed truth: Outdoor play reduces stress and anxiety. But that’s not all!

Sunlight exposure during outdoor play triggers the release of serotonin. Plus, it’s a natural source of vitamin D, which supports emotional regulation and improved mood. So step outside, breathe fresh air, and let nature work its magic. Let’s help you find creative ways to play outdoors!

#39 Tim Richardson | The Empathy Factor: Discusses Mental Health, Sports, and Political Advocacy

Join us in this episode where Tim Richardson MP shares his experiences as a parliamentary secretary, discussing the challenges and pressures of the role 🎙 We delve into creating safe spaces for mental health conversations, the impact of positive role models, and the need for attitude and behaviour shifts, particularly regarding gender-based violence. Click HERE to listen!

Daily Mission Cards

It’s time to spend MORE time outside and embrace the great outdoors 🌞 Double your daily steps or play challenges and turn physical activity into a game. Gather your friends, family, or students—the more laughter and movement, the better! Explore the Kindness and Happiness Mission Cards for randomised activities like this.

Old MacDonald Had A Fitness Farm

This story-based physical activity game combines imagination with movement 🚀 Let kids picture themselves as Old MacDonald, the farmer, completing challenges like chasing runaway chickens or planting imaginary seeds. Each plot twist corresponds to an exercise. Suitable for all ages, this game adapts to any setting, whether indoors or outdoors. Play it today, or sign up for an account HERE!

Taking Away The Boundaries of Play with Patrick Hughes

Join us in this professional development course as we discuss the disappearance of unstructured play and the reliance on the approval of coaches, parents, and peers 📚 Pat unveils different strategies to educate students on how to experience free play and how to take off with it. He also shares the science-backed benefits of it on resilience, empathy, problem-solving, and pure joy. Learn more HERE

RMIT

Last week's talks at RMIT in the city felt like a straight shot through the goalposts for six points 🌟 The umpire would've given the all-clear as I kicked goals from everywhere.

I thoroughly enjoyed sharing stories, ideas, and fun ways for the audience to enhance their mental well-being.

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