by FRED SCHWAB
In general, the downsides of indoor inactivity are obvious: obesity, diabetes and an increased propensity to develop Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) among the young (heck, probably among the not-so-young too). Being outdoors has demonstrable benefits: Studies have shown that exposure to natural settings reduces the symptoms of ADHD, and sunlight stimulates the pineal gland, increasing serotonin levels, vitamin D and healthy biorhythms. Good feelings are enhanced and depression lessened. Walking, by itself a good aerobic exercise, eases the mind. Hiking through marvelous geological settings such as Yellowstone, or rafting down the Colorado, or scaling the cliffs in Zion lifts our spirits, altering what we think is important in life. We become less focused on ourselves.
In recent decades, humans have become less immersed in nature and less exposed to its beneficial effects. Since 1987, Americans have spent one-fourth less time hunting, fishing, and visiting parks and forests. Even geologists spend less time outside and more time in the lab or office staring at computer screens.
Earth for more