5 Ways Being Outside Can Relieve Back Pain
Ah, the great outdoors. The source of inspiration for some of the greatest minds of the past century – think Thoreau, Muir, Keats – and, oddly enough, one of the best sources for combating back pain! Here’s why:
- Vitamin D. Studies show that high amounts of the sunshine vitamin is linked to healthy BMIs, a decrease in some psychological disorders, and (whether directly or indirectly) back pain! So grab your sunscreen, a good book, and a towel, and start soaking up some rays!
- De-Stress. If a project at work seems to be dragging on, and your brain juices just won’t seem to flow, take a breather – literally. Deliberately slowing down your breath – particularly out in the fresh air – can lower your levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), making it easier for your pain to respond to outside stimuli (such as a light massage or change in temperature).
- Movement. In today’s world, being indoors usually means a screen of some sort is directly in front of your face, and you are probably sitting. High amounts of screen time and sitting can result in weight gain, back strain, and poor circulation, all of which can aggravate your pain. The easiest solution? Simply step outside. Even a ten minute walk can do wonders for you health!
- Psychology of Aesthetics. Sometimes, simply taking the time to ‘stop and smell the roses’ – even when we don’t feel like it – can trick our brains into helping us feel healthier. As humans, we tend to adapt to our surroundings; so, when we surround ourselves with vibrant life and peacefulness, it becomes easier to internalize and emanate these characteristics.
- Oxygen levels. Fresh air is more than just good for short term de-stressing; spending even fifteen minutes outdoors daily can help increase your body’s oxygen levels over the long-term, especially if you spend all day breathing stagnant air in a home or office. When you spend time near trees, away from freeways, and in clean air, even your immune system will benefit from a boost, making it easier for you body to recover from pain.
Healthpointe doctors provide health care – not just sick care! We are passionate about health, mindfulness, and prevention, and helping you achieve holistic well-being.
For more information about holistic medicine and the doctors at Healthpointe who can help you live your healthiest life, contact any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the Irwindale clinic by Duarte, Azusa, West Covina, Vincent, and Mayflower Village.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Irwindale, by Duarte, Azusa, West Covina, Vincent, and Mayflower Village. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.
Last updated: August 18, 2017