Explore the Great Outdoors

This is an ideal time of year to leave the confines of your house and explore the great outdoors. Temperatures are slowly coming down from a long, hot summer. Nature is beginning to clothe itself in a magnificent display of fall colors, and a dose of fresh air and sunshine is just what we all need. Dr. Mercola discusses more thoroughly the health benefits of outdoor time in this week's article. It's time to find a local hiking trail, walking path, or beach and make the most of fall weather. It might not be here for long, so let's get out there while we can.

If you've been tethered to a desk, take it slow. Build up to longer walks or bicycle rides. This is especially important as we age. Doing too much, too quickly is a sure way to get ourselves into trouble with our bodies. Don't worry though, with a regular walk added to your routine, it won't take long before you're appreciating the increased lung capacity and endurance. After awhile you'll start to notice a reduction in your stress levels and an overall sense of well-being. You might even start to sleep more soundly, awakening with a renewed sense of purpose.

Our bodies need exercise to be healthy and it will come to crave it. The recipe to good health isn't overly complicated. It really amounts to a few simple strategies: Eat healthy, Exercise, and Sleep. Sure, there are a few other things that go into it, but these are the foundations for a healthy lifestyle. It's good to audit these functions once in a while to make adjustments. We can easily fall prey to bad habits with junk food. An injury or scheduling conflict can get in the way of exercise, and a few nights staying up late can throw off sleep patterns. Find the right balance in your schedule and make it a priority to do these three things well and make yourself stick to it. Your future self will thank you.

All the Best,  Team USWM