A Walk In The Woods Is Better For You Than You Think
You already know getting outside feels good—but do you know just how good it really is for you?
Modern life keeps most of us indoors, hunched over screens and rushing from one thing to the next. And while the gym has its perks, the great outdoors offers something a treadmill just can’t: a full-body and full-mind reset. Nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s medicine. And it works fast.
Let’s look at what happens when you swap fluorescent lights for forest light and take your movement outside.
Your Brain Is Wired For Nature
Spending time in nature calms the nervous system in a way urban environments don’t. Research shows that just 20 minutes in a natural setting can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
Why? Because your brain is designed for it. For thousands of years, humans lived in rhythm with the natural world. Our attention, emotions, and sense of safety are all shaped by natural surroundings. Even a short walk among trees can slow racing thoughts and help you feel more present.
And you don’t have to go far. Local parks, trails, and greenways can offer the same benefits—even five minutes can help.
It’s the Easiest Way To Be Active
Many people want to move their bodies more but dread the gym or feel overwhelmed trying to start a new routine. A walk outside is the simplest, most accessible way to build an active lifestyle—and it doesn’t have to feel like a workout.
When you’re walking through a quiet forest or chatting with a friend on a neighborhood trail, you’re moving your body without even thinking about it. It’s gentle, low-impact, and adaptable to your pace and schedule.
And unlike structured exercise, walking outdoors boosts both physical health and emotional wellbeing at the same time. It’s not just what you’re doing—it’s where you’re doing it.
It Feels Good Because It Is Good For You
Being outdoors isn’t just a mood booster—it has measurable health benefits. Regular time in nature has been linked to:
Lower blood pressure and heart rate
Improved sleep and immune function
Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
Greater creativity and focus
And here’s the best part: it’s free, and it’s available right now.
Start Where You Are
You don’t need a national park pass or a backpack full of gear to get started. A walk around your neighborhood, a visit to a local trail, or a few minutes under the trees at your nearest park is enough to feel the difference.
Not sure where to go or want company along the way? That’s why Outdoor Sisters exists. We help women reconnect—with themselves, with nature, and with each other—through local hikes, casual meetups, and real-world community.
You don’t have to do this alone. Join us for an upcoming event or learn more about our membership It might just be the healthiest thing you do all week.