Top 3 Ways Nature Can Help Recovery and Performance
Nature can be a highly underutilized form of recovery/performance booster! There are a ton of ways to incorporate nature, as well as a ton of benefits that come with it! We’ll break down the top 3 in a little bit more detail and show you how you can start incorporating them into your daily routine. Then we can start maximizing your recovery as well as start feeling and performing better!
Sunlight
Sunlight is an amazing performance and recovery increaser! Getting morning sunlight can help set your circadian rhythm (natural sleep/wake cycle) for the day, helping you fall asleep faster and get more deep sleep maximizing recovery for the next day. Also Vitamin D from sunlight can help increase bone health through better calcium absorption, improved immune function, and better mood and energy! These will all lead to feeling better, performing better and recovering better!
Grounding
Grounding or getting barefoot on grass, dirt, or sand can greatly improve your health and ability to perform and recover better! How it works is by neutralizing free radicals with the Earth’s electrons and promoting a natural state of balance within the body. This can lead to reduced inflammation, improved sleep and reduced muscle soreness! All of which will lead to better performance and overall health!
Forest Bathing
I know…Sounds weird! Haha… but it’s really just getting in a forest setting and reaping the benefits! This could be a walk, hike, run or just hanging out! The trees actually release antimicrobial compounds that can help improve immune function. Other benefits include, stress reduction, enhanced focus and mindfulness, improved sleep and mood enhancement.
These are just a few of the ways you can reap the great benefits of nature! Get out there and see what recovery and performance enhancements you get out of some focused nature time!
#unleashthepotential
Written by:
Rob Jost – ACE-CPT, NSCA-CPT
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Voorhees Flyers Training center.
The Hollydell ice arena, in the main building.