Bartlett Regional | House Calls | Fall 2018

Walking, running, hiking or simply being in the fresh air doesn’t just make you feel better—studies are showing that spending time in nature can help relieve stress, counteract depression and even lower your blood pressure. Researchers are demonstrating the positive effects of parks and forests on outlook, mood, attitude, and self-esteem. Green breaks Spending time in nature has also proven beneficial to people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and post-traumatic stress disorder. Studies of children with ADHD have shown that they may perform better throughout the day if they take “green breaks” and spend time in a natural environment.* And the American Journal of Public Health reported that being outdoors every day significantly reduced ADHD symptoms in children. Doctors in some states are even writing “prescriptions” for patient visits to parks. The beauty of living in Southeast Alaska is that we don’t need to go far to spend time in a healing green environment—we just need to open the door! *Taylor, Kuo and Sullivan 2001 It’s good for your health A new public information campaign from Bartlett Regional Hospital and the U.S. Forest Service Do you dislike exercise but wish you didn’t? Before you give up on getting active—and its many rewards—see if these tips help you find your affection for fitness. Pick an easy exercise. Walking is super simple. And it’s really good for you. Take a 5- or 10-minute stroll to begin, and then gradually work your way up to longer jaunts. Walking for 30 minutes a day is great for heart health. Exercise with an enthusiast. Go with someone who already exercises—and enjoys it. Watch out! Their passion for fitness may be contagious. Don’t call it exercise. What you’re after is an active lifestyle— and fun and games count. Go window shopping. Play tennis. Ride bikes with your kids. Cater to your inner social butterfly—or your lone wolf. If you like to mingle, consider walking with a group. If you’re shy, solo workouts may be more to your liking. Challenge yourself. Whether that’s walking a little farther every week or finishing a 5K, your goal will help keep you going. Spin it positively. If exercise seems more like drudgery than delight, try thinking of exercise as something you get to do—not something you have to do. Sources: American Heart Association; American College of Sports Medicine Think you don’t like exercise? These tips may change your mind www.bartletthospital.org 7