Reclaiming Outside, Rescuing the ‘Indoor Generation’
Throughout history, cultures around the world have turned to nature as a source of increased health and well-being. While science continues to support this connection, and more programs, like Forest Bathing, are emerging to help us understand it, humans continue to spend the majority of our time indoors.
According to canada.ca, humans spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Another Canadian study found that only 5.8% of our time is spent outdoors. This high percentage of indoor time—a phenomenon dubbed “the indoor generation”— is consistent across many developed nations.
There are so many reasons this isn’t ideal for us as a species. It’s actually unnatural, when you think about it. And it’s the cause for so many of the modern plights plaguing our society. Here are a few examples.
Disruption of Natural Cycles
Spending the majority of our time indoors disrupts our natural biological cycles. The human body requires exposure to natural light and the outside environment to function optimally. A lack of natural light disrupts the circadian rhythm (the body's master clock), making it harder to sleep at night and causing fatigue during the day.
And reduced sunlight exposure leads to lower Vitamin D, which is essential for bone density and immune function. Low levels are linked to chronic diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure.
Wasting Away
Prolonged indoor living is often synonymous with a sedentary lifestyle, leading to "sitting disease". Less physical activity reduces calorie burn, increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Loneliness and stress resulting from being indoors for too long can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to germs.
Mental and Cognitive Health Impact
Continuous indoor living can lead to psychological stress, reduced mental energy, and reduced cognitive function. Lack of connection with nature is linked to higher rates of anxiety and mood disorders. Prolonged time indoors without natural stimulation can cause mental fatigue, impacting concentration and cognitive restoration. Increased screen time (TV, computers, phones) associated with indoor life can lead to severe eye strain and, in children, has been linked to myopia.
Research suggests small, frequent changes are beneficial.
Get outside: Even a 10-to-30-minute walk outside can maintain appropriate Vitamin D levels and boost mood.
Bring the outdoors in: Integrating natural light and indoor plants can simulate the natural world, even just a little.
Try Forest Therapy! This Japanese practice, known as “shinrin yoku”, has proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost immunity, and improve mood.
