Everybody Outside:

Everybody Outside: Take Advantage of Nature’s Healing Power

Well-being—that magical blend of comfort, health, and happiness—can be an elusive state if you have chronic stress, pain, or disease. But what if you could increase feelings of well-being simply by going for a walk in nature? A growing body of research says you can. Studies are finding that people are healthier, happier, more creative, and feel “more alive” when they connect with nature.

So excuse yourself from your computer screen, iPhone, or television, and take a nature break. It’s summer in Maine! Get out and enjoy the natural splendor that tourists flock here to bask in. Walk the beaches. Hike the mountains. Go for a paddle. Google “walking trails” in your area. Do it for your good health and to find that well-being sweet spot.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort—all the more reason to push yourself to get outside. A 2016 UK study found that interacting with nature helped people suffering from physical illness, depression, and anxiety control their symptoms and even get better, in conjunction with conventional medication. Another study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences in the United States (PNAS) came to a similar conclusion, with a focus on mental health.

Just being in nature is good for you according to the research, but when you add exercise: walking, hiking, cycling, paddling, swimming, you get a double dose of healthy benefits. And a walk in the woods costs a lot less than a gym membership.

Soaking up natural vitamin D is another benefit of being outside. Vitamin D is important for maintaining healthy bones and also protects against cancer, diabetes, and other diseases. Just don’t forget your sunscreen.

Everybody Outside: Take Advantage of Nature’s Healing Power

Cannabis is a Great Hiking Buddy

You can take your cannabis with you on your outside adventures; a vaporizer and/or edibles will fit easily in your daypack, along with your water bottle. You might even find that cannabis enhances your enjoyment of the outdoors. Many people experience a renewed appreciation for the colors, patterns, and sounds of nature and feel a deeper connection to the web of life.

It’s summer in Maine. Turns out, that’s some of the best medicine there is. What are some of your favorite ways to enjoy nature? We’d love to know how spending time outdoors affects your well-being!

Wellness Connection of Maine

About Wellness Connection of Maine

Established in 2011, Wellness Connection of Maine operates four state-licensed medical cannabis dispensaries in Bath, Brewer, Gardiner and Portland. Our dispensaries are safe, inviting, spacious and accessible wellness centers fusing the best features of a pharmacy, community center and wellness practice in one convenient location. Under one roof, all your medical cannabis and full-spectrum wellness needs are answered by our member liaisons, passionate experts who care and partner with you on your journey to improved quality of life. – Peruse through our extensive library of educational books and magazines. – Enjoy a free coffee/tea and wifi in the comfort of our welcoming community center. – Attend educational events and seminars such as Medical Cannabis 101 or Cooking with Cannabis. – Other services as available, always at no cost to our patients