Getting outside and getting fresh air

Can something as basic as more fresh air improve mood and encourage better health—physical/mental/emotional?  Yes, it can! In Texas where the summers are long and HOT, one must start early to enjoy time outside until it cools off. Gardeners are already motivated to dig in the dirt and spend time in the fresh air, but even if you are not athletic or into gardening,  being outside for a bit every day is healthy for mind, mood and body. A regular walk is one of the best ways to start to be active again if you have let your exercise goals lapse.  

When we get overly stressed or are feeling down, angry or sad, it can be easy to avoid even the obvious things that used to bring us more joy.  Small steady changes are effective ways to improve mood and overall life satisfaction. On the days when it is too hot to be outside, consider tackling some in-the-house projects that would make you feel better about your living space—again a little at a time can be helpful and motivating.  While medication can help with mood, there are many life-style changes that make the quality of your life better in significant ways.