It’s peak leaf time here in Philadelphia — a frenzy of color with new shades of red, yellow, and orange popping daily. Nature puts on a show at sunrise and then kicks it up a notch during the golden hour; couple that with majestic blue skies every day for a month, and truly we couldn’t have asked for a better October. And every day, I’ve headed outside to experience the fall in all its glory — at least once, and two or three times on most days — for a run, a walk around the block, an evening stroll.
Here at Canopy, we talk a lot about wellness and taking care of yourself. It’s one of our core values: People come first. Our work is important, but not as important as caring for ourselves and those we love. Getting outside is one of those things I know is critical for my own wellness. For those who know me, I run…a lot (575 days straight during the pandemic). It’s tougher to get started on some days than others, but once I do get out there and start moving, it feels so good. Many times, I head out for a quick run and it turns into a much longer run. (Ask my wife…she has stopped asking how far I’m going.)
Study after study has confirmed the health benefits of being outside and connecting with nature. Whether its forest bathing, bird watching, trail hiking, or gardening, there is scientific proof that getting outdoors lowers your blood pressure, improves mindfulness, and lowers stress.
“The first, and perhaps most important, benefit is that being in nature boosts feelings of well-being and life satisfaction. In fact, simply being outside and breathing fresh air has been shown to reduce stress and enhance relaxation. Research shows that being in nature, also called forest bathing, reduces stress and enhances relaxation. In addition, outdoor exercise has been shown to improve both self-esteem and mood, with the presence of water eliciting even greater benefits.” — U.S. News: 6 Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
With that in mind, I’m encouraging you all to get outside! If running isn’t for you, take a scenic walk around your neighborhood or go in search of the nearest trail or park. We work with so many clients whose mission centers around connecting people with nature and wildlife — zoos, gardens, and parks are all places of wellness. Find one in your area and take family or friends to get some fresh air.
As the days grow shorter and the temps begin to fall, many of us will think about hibernating. We’ll retreat inside our homes and rarely venture out until the trees bloom again for spring. Yet these cold, crisp days are some of the best to get outside. The health benefits of exercising outside don’t go away; they actually increase with falling temperatures. Walking or running in the cold can rev your metabolism and combat seasonal sadness, among other benefits.
I’ve always said, “There are no bad days to get outside for a run — just the wrong clothes.” It’s a family joke that I always travel with gloves, just in case. So as an incentive to help you keep hitting the trails all year long, I’m offering a pair of Canopy gloves to the first 100 people who ask — perfect for keeping you warm on those morning runs, evening strolls, or weekend visits to the nearest outdoor cultural attraction. Just provide your address and we’ll drop a pair in the mail.
Whether you take me up on my offer or not, make time to get outside today: Your mind and body will thank you. Stay warm, my friends.
— David Walsh, President & Chief Advisor
