Why Should We Play Outdoor Games?

As time passes and we become adults, we are compelled to let go of a lot of things that were dear to us as a child. The drudgery of life, the looming responsibilities, and the yearning for a better future fixates us into a routine where work takes the forefront. In the bustle and din of life, it becomes difficult to prioritize things, such as health, well-being and happiness. A very common thing that a lot of adults, and even children of today’s times, stop engaging in is outdoor play.

Yes, you heard it right. Outdoor play has several benefits for both adults and children. It has merits beyond physical activity. Irrespective of your age and whatever phase of life you are in, outdoor games can be an absolute game-changer. From inducing dopamine to improving your mental health, the advantages of indulging in outdoor games are countless. If you want to know the reasons why outdoor games should be a part of your lifestyle, read ahead!

Outdoor Games - An Individualistic Definition

There is no one-size-fits-all definition of outdoor games. Simply put, it can mean any recreational activity done outdoors. This can include outdoor basketball, hiking and backyard games like shuffleboard or ladder toss. You can play outdoor games with or without any equipment. Furthermore, most outdoor games are played and best enjoyed with fellow companions, but you can also try playing some alone.

Top 6 Reasons to Play Outdoor Games

1. A Break From Digital Devices

   The digital bombardment is real. Both adults and children experience it in some way or the other. For children, online classes, entertainment choices, communicating with friends and even teachers, etc, are a few reasons that materialize this digital dependency. And, for adults, jobs, business, communication and entertainment are reasons that facilitate the same. In recent times, the average screen time of people has increased. Likewise, iPad babies have become a thing where children as young as toddlers are given unrestricted access to digital tools to the point of their own detriment.

   The only way to distance oneself from the harms of digital overload is to go into a digital detox. The easiest way to do so is by spending more time outdoors and engaging in outdoor games. Scheduling an hour or so of active outdoor play sets a natural limit on the time you spend on any digital device. Besides, you connect with nature better and develop more respect and consideration for people and things around you. Such a digital detox, driven by outdoor games and play, can be a cathartic and life changing experience for you.

2. Much-Needed Dose of Vitamin E

   As our lives become increasingly indoor-dependent, it becomes essential to make concerted efforts to have some fun in the sun. Humans need sun exposure to make vitamin D - an essential element that plays a crucial part in many body processes like bone development and improvement in the immune system. In addition, adequate sun exposure also bolsters your mood. The lack of enough vitamin D in your body can have grave repercussions, such as higher susceptibility towards Type 1 diabetes, certain types of cancer and muscle pain. The easiest way to get some sun is by engaging in outdoor play, such as backyard games, football, basketball, etc. But, while you bask under the sun and enjoy your favorite outdoor games, do not forget to lather yourself with sunscreen.

3. Outdoor Games Enhance Mental Health and Mood

   The third reason why you should play outdoor games is that they improve your mental health and mood. For both children and adults, outdoor play releases dopamine - a happy hormone. Indoor settings are usually consistent and flat, whereas being outdoors provides more stimuli. There is fresh air, the azure sky, lush green trees, chirping birds, and varying terrain. This undulating environment needs more focus and concentration, which increases mindfulness - a common way of boosting mental health. Furthermore, being outdoors vehemently reduces stress and multiple studies corroborate the same.

   Likewise, unstructured outdoor physical activity can help children sleep better and sound sleep at night, while improving concentration and mood during the next. Furthermore, children are able to interact with other children during outdoor play, which enhances their social skills and relationships within the peer group.

4. Outdoor Games Might Boost Memory

   Another reason why outdoor activities and games should be a part of our life is because they can potentially improve memory. Many studies indicate that being outside, especially walking outside, promotes better memory. For instance, a study conducted by the University of Michigan showed that walking in a nature-bound area enhances memory and improves retention. Another study also reveals that people with depression has improved memory after walks in nature as compared to urban walks.

5. Outdoor Games Are Usually Free

   The best part of engaging in outdoor games is that they are usually free. Unlike gyms, sports clubs or recreational centers that host games, playing outside is usually free. You can venture into a public park, find public tennis courts, badminton courts, etc, and have the time of your life. Besides, you also have the option of indulging in some fun backyard games, such as frisbee, rampshot, etc. So, outdoor games are budget friendly and accessible to all.

6. Outdoor Games Bolster Creativity

   Last but not least, outdoor games are also known to improve your mental health and boost creativity. For both adults and children, spending time in nature is a sureshot way to get more creative. The stimulation that our minds get by being outside and playing under the sun promotes creative thinking. The digital detox that comes with it also furthers the purpose.

Wrapping It Up

So, there we have it, the top 6 reasons why everyone should engage in outdoor play and games. Besides the six advantages mentioned above, outdoor games can also benefit us by boosting energy, improving our physical health, enhancing our social skills, improving sleep, etc. So, no matter your age, make sure to take out some time to have fun in the sun.