Well spring has officially arrived here in Markham! I'm trying to make the best of the warming weather by taking out the dog and having friends over for a light BBQ on our patio. So far we've gotten a few days of amazing weather!
This past weekend, my girlfriend and I took my dog Keiko out the outdoor Toronto Premium Outlets and also the Shops on Don Mills to do some (window) shopping. It was such a beautiful day on Saturday that my face got a bit sun burnt as well! We had a great time spending time with each other and the dog and just being outside for 5-6hrs!
Being outside is one of those things we will **almost never** take for granted because of our winters here in Canada. Here's a simple way to start enjoying the warmer weather that we're getting in Markham right now. You can simply just start by walking (or doing any activity of your choice) and enjoying the sun increases your serotonin levels (happy hormones). You'll FEEL so much better as well! As well as feeling better, 20-30mins of walking (or exercise) each day can help you gradually lose weight! It's an easy way to start being active. I'll guarantee that you'll probably sleep better that night after being out in the sun for an hour or so!
So to make it easier to see what the benefits are to walking 20-30mins/day out in sunny weather:
- Increases Serotonin levels --> Makes you feel good!
- Increases blood flow --> Helps increase your cardiovascular system ---> Decreases risks for heart disease
- Better sleep at night --> Possibly helps regulate normal bodily rhythms
- Get to relax and de-stress from the worries of the day!
- The sun is a good source of Vitamin D (however, do use sunblock on a really hot day! UV rays are no good)
Try it out a couple of times and see how you feel! I guarantee that you'll feel significantly better and more relaxed for the day! I know at least we did! =D
Dr. Lee