With summer right around the corner, I’m instantly reminded of my childhood and the endless hours I spent outdoors with friends.  We played all the traditional outdoor games like hopscotch, double dutch or jacks. We also were known to make up new games to pass the time.  We stayed outdoors until we saw the street lights come on, that was our indication it was time to come in. Camp was the other great summer activity. Hiking, swimming, campfires and meeting new people made the summer exciting. Those were the days.  What happened to this simple approach toward childhood?

Traditional summer activities have been challenged with video games, cell phones, and more and more technological devices.

I recently read that the average person spends more than 90% of their time indoors missing out on all the benefits that nature freely gives.  By going outdoors, studies show that the sun’s rays (with the use of sunscreen) can help increase our vitamin D levels which have been linked to reducing the risk of cancer, and improve the body’s immune system, just to name a few.

It’s also a great opportunity to get exercise which decreases the risk of obesity and stress.  Actually, our overall mental and physical well-being is being tied to being outdoors.

Who knew that these simple childhood pleasures could one day prolong, if not save your life.

Enjoy your summer!