Now that spring is here, you might feel nature calling you to spend more time outside gardening or exercising. Those activities have obvious benefits, but did you know that spending any time out in nature at all provides distinct health benefits? Taking your meals outside, too, can improve your quality of life. Here are 7 reasons to go on a picnic today.
1. Bonding
with Family and Friends
Going
on a picnic with friends or family offers a special kind of bonding and quality
time. Many people find themselves so busy these days and feel attached to their
smart phones. With the blurred lines between work and family time, meals can
feel like a constant battle to maintain the other diners’ attention. People are
more likely to accept a no-screens rule when they are out in nature. It is the
perfect time to talk. And, people might feel more relaxed and open away from
home or the office.
2. Improved Relationships
Families who eat meals together see improved relationships
with each other and better behavior from children. A picnic is beneficial
because it usually occurs in a place where children have an opportunity to
play, which will improve everyone’s enjoyment of the time together. Children
will love the opportunity for some focused family time, which will likely
create better days ahead for everyone.
3. Adventures in the Making
If your picnic is part of a larger road trip or adventure,
it is a wonderful opportunity to take in new sites or admire a new view. Eating
your meal at a scenic overlook provides you and your family the time to really
absorb the beauty of the place.
4. Better Mental Health
Spending time outside in the fresh air and sunshine is
linked to improved mental health. Though researchers are not yet sure why,
studies show again and again that after just ten minutes outside in a natural
setting, our tension decreases as measured in our muscle tension and blood
pressure. Other studies show that spending time outside decreases cortisol, a
stress hormone in our bodies, and helps improve mood disorders.
5. Low-Cost Social Activity
Going on a picnic with friends is a creative low-cost social
activity. Everyone can contribute and you rarely have to worry about a rental
fee. All you need is a blanket or two or a park with picnic tables. Because
everyone will naturally be in a better mood, it will be even more fun. Picnics
are also an opportunity for adults to play in ways they might not at home.
Bring a frisbee or a soccer ball and invite everyone to play.
6. Fun Meal Preparation
Picnics, whether they are for just a few people or several
family groups, afford everyone a chance to contribute to the meal. Since they are
less formal that other types of meals, mix-and-match potlucks work well, and
everyone has an opportunity to choose their favorite dish or treat to bring.
Picnic foods are often easier to prepare, too, so children can have a hand in
their preparation. The event is a lot less stressful for everyone when people
cooperate.
7. Health Benefits
Taking your meals outside also offers a variety of physical
health benefits. Walking to your eating site, breathing in the fresh air, and
absorbing Vitamin D is just the beginning. Playing with children can get
your heart pumping and boost serotonin levels. Picnics are also the perfect
time to indulge in healthy foods that do not require constant refrigeration
such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Taking the time to improve your mental
health and mood in nature is linked to diminished chronic health problems and
overall improved health.
Organizing a picnic is well worth the effort and an easy
way to improve your life and the lives of your friends and family members. It is
also the perfect time to try out new, easy recipes, especially using the bright
flavors of the season. Aronia berries are a superfood that contains vitamins,
minerals, and antioxidants, which makes them a perfect addition to your picnic
repertoire. Superberries Frozen Aronia berries go well in bars, crumbles, or
scone recipes, and Superberries Aronia Berry Concentrate can be used to make
light spritzers, the perfect refreshing drink for your picnic. And Aroniaberry
Gummy Chews are great on-the-go snacks. Everyone will love their bright colors
and bold flavor, and their myriad health benefits are a definite plus.