1. Improved Sleep

Exposure to natural light helps regulate your sleep patterns and circadian rhythm. Spending time outside, especially in the morning, helps reset that internal clock and promote better sleeping habits. Try to spend time out on your deck in the morning. Enjoy a cup of coffee or bowl of cereal outside, and let the natural light reset your biological clock. Adding comfortable outdoor furniture to your deck can create a comfortable space to enjoy this morning ritual.

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2. Boost in Serotonin

Sunlight can boost your mood and energy levels. Research suggests that sunlight affects the levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. Exposure to sunlight can boost serotonin levels which helps regulate your mood and social behavior. Spending time outside on your deck and absorbing the sun's rays can be a great way to boost your mood. Consider adding comfortable seating and bright cheerful colored accents to your deck decor to create a welcoming and uplifting environment. Encourage your kids to join you; they may inspire a game of tag or catch.

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3. Motivation to Exercise

According to the National Library of Medicine, Aerobic exercises, including jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening, and dancing, have proved to reduce anxiety and depression. Now I know you're not going to go for a jog out on your deck but engaging in physical activity outdoors is a proven way to boost mental health. Workouts outside can be more enjoyable and less monotonous, which helps keep you motivated. Consider bringing a yoga mat, weights, and a laptop outside to complete your regular program. The fresh air and natural surroundings can be a positive addition to your exercise routine.

Gardening is another great option! Consider adding planter boxes or creating a small herb or tomato garden on your deck to create a space that motivates you to spend time outside.

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4. Mental Restoration from Overstimulation

We are constantly overstimulated in our modern lives, from sitting at a desk and staring at a screen to scrolling social media our minds can get overloaded. Being outside can give ourselves the break and mental reset we need from overstimulation. Add elements to your deck that promote relaxation such as a hammock, water feature, or other comfy furniture. A setting like this can provide the break you need from everyday life. Taking these breaks can help us improve our thinking, reasoning, and other mental abilities.

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5. Decrease stress, anger, and burnout

Nature can naturally help decrease anxiety levels, stress, and feelings of anger. Being outside can lead to social interactions and opportunities to come together with friends and family. It's easy to get burnout without a consistent self-care routine. Sitting on your deck and practicing mindfulness, writing down three things that went great that day, and 30 minutes of exercise are all great and simple steps towards a consistent self-care routine. Consider finding a routine that works for you and use your deck as a space to practice your self-care.

The mental health benefits of spending time outdoors are endless, from improved sleep, to motivation to exercise, and decreases in stress, anger, and burnout. By transforming your deck into an outdoor retreat, you can enjoy the benefits right outside your door. Your deck should be more than just a way to increase square footage and the value of your home, it should be a space you can enjoy with family and friends. Enhance your mental health and well-being by spending more time outside, even if it's just on your deck!

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