Your daughter has been spending quality time outside with her GOTR coach and teammates this fall. As the weather turns crisper and colder, spending time outside each day becomes not quite as appealing. Regardless, it’s important to both our mental and physical health to try spending just a little bit of time outside each day – even as the seasons change.

“There are many benefits of getting out into nature. It’s hardwired into our systems because there is a really primitive response to hearing the birds chirping and feeling the breeze on your face,” says SSM Health Family Physician Dr. Roopa Shah. “Getting out into nature and getting sunlight can help really reset our circadian rhythms for the day which, in fact, can help our overall health, our immune function and also improve our sleep.”

Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle. These natural processes respond primarily to light and dark and affect most living things, including animals, plants, and microbes. “The circadian rhythm regulates metabolism too and just keeps us functioning optimally,” says Dr. Shah. 

The GOTR Fall 5K Celebration will be a great way to enjoy some fantastic outside time with teammates, coaches, friends and family. But, as your daughter transitions from her weekly time with her GOTR team, be intentional about finding a way for your family to include some outdoor time several times a week – even if just for a few minutes on a short walk up and down your block.