Good morning friends! Today is Day 20 of Making Small Changes. (If you’re new, click here to read all about it and get started!) Today’s change is one that I can almost guarantee will improve your mood and clear your head.

Getting outside is something I’ve had to grow to love. Growing up, I was happiest in my room with a book in my hand. While I still love that as well, I’ve established a love of being outside so much more. Here are 5 reasons we need to get outside- now! (Especially now that it’s FINALLY fall in Houston!)

1.) to be reminded of God’s creation

I was just beginning to type this post (sitting outside) and looked up to see a mockingbird perched on our gate just a few feet from me. Living in Houston, I don’t take seeing animals in the wild for granted! It’s so good to go outside and realize that God created this beautiful planet for us to enjoy!

2.) Vitamin D, anyone?

Vitamin D is great for our energy levels and the sun is a natural source. It’s definitely a delicate balance getting enough of it vs. getting sunburned, but a little sunshine is so beneficial in more ways than one. It boosts my mood like nothing else!

3.) Helps curb cabin fever

If you’re a stay-at-home-mom like me, the walls of my house seem like they start closing in after a whole day at home. I have to remind myself and my kids to get out every single day. The kids love it and if it’s not 100 degrees I love it, too!

4.) It can encourage activity

Boot camp is my favorite form of exercise and I love that my class is outside. Even if you’re not part of a formal class, get outside and walk, run, ride your bike, or even just chase your kids around a bit! Being active is so important to our overall health.

5.) It can inspire creativity

Have you ever watched a sunrise or sunset, or taken a trip to the beach and felt a burst of creativity? I know that as someone who gets writers’ block, getting outside can help me think of new material for my writing or even just clear my head to be inspired. Whether you’re an artist, a songwriter, or a person who would like to be creative, getting outside can help get those creative wheels spinning!

What’s your favorite activity outside?