Living in the Sunshine State, we may take our year-round access to the outdoors and the natural treasures around us for granted. Florida has much to offer to attract visitors participating in emerging trends such as wellness tourism and ecotourism. As residents, we can take advantage of our natural surroundings and incorporate nature into our exercise routines.

Most people associate physical fitness with going to the gym, but our physical and mental health can benefit greatly from spending more time being active outdoors.[i] Spending money on a gym membership does not have to be the only way to get in much needed exercise and physical activity. The great outdoors are an excellent alternative to heading to the gym each day. Spending time in nature can reduce mental and physical stress by improving control of different parts of our nervous system.[ii] Stress impacts the sympathetic nervous system that controls all the automatic functions of our body, including blood pressure and heart rate. Spending even as little as five minutes outdoors has shown to calm down and regulate the sympathetic nervous system, which decreases feelings of stress and anxiety. Nature exposure has also proven to improve cognitive functions, like creativity, critical thinking and sleep quality.

Florida has 11 National Parks and 175 State Parks, in addition to all the green spaces managed by local cities and counties. [iii] These green spaces are diverse, from wetlands to coastlines to prairies. There is something for everyone when it comes to being active outdoors, and each activity offers unique health and wellness benefits that can improve our quality of life. The outdoors also provides opportunities for physical activities that bring people and communities together in ways that strengthen our social ties and relationships with one another.

Water, water everywhere

There are 101 miles of protected beaches in Florida’s State Parks alone, and over 800 miles of beaches open to the public throughout the state. Florida is also home to hundreds of natural springs for those who don’t live near the magnificent coastline. Water sports and activities offer unique health benefits that appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Swimming and water exercises are effective low-impact options for improving your cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, increasing flexibility and improving lung health. Because of the low impact, exercising in the water is a recommended alternative for those with joint pain and issues. Activities like paddle boarding, kayaking and surfing can also improve your balance and improve muscle strength, all while enjoying beautiful scenery around you.

Hit the trails

Florida’s State Parks have hundreds of miles of beautiful, diverse hiking trails for residents to enjoy year-round. There are trails for everyone, from beginners stepping onto trails for the first time, to experienced hikers tackling the 1,300-mile Florida National Scenic Trail. There are many health benefits associated with hiking, including improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength, and even improved balance caused by navigating the uneven ground.[iv] Hiking does not have to be a major undertaking, and simply going for a walk outside in your neighborhood provides many of the same health benefits.

Healthy Environment, Healthy People

Studies show that over-developed urban areas with a lack of green spaces take a toll on our physical and mental health. These have long-term effects that decrease our quality of life and negatively impact other important determinants of health.[v] When the natural habitats around us are destroyed, we must contend with higher levels of pollution, overcrowding, and other negative effects of urbanization. We lose access to the natural treasures like our springs and protected lands. We have an obligation to preserve the state’s natural treasures not just because of environmental ramifications, but because having access to nature improves our own physical health and well-being. We cannot live healthy, active lives without access to safe outdoor environments. It is in everyone’s best interest to protect and preserve the state’s natural resources for generations to come.

FHCP’s Commitment to well-being

At Florida Health Care Plans we believe in treating the whole person by providing high-quality healthcare and resources that meet the unique needs of our members. From gym membership benefits to no-cost nutritional counseling, exclusive discounts on health and wellness services, to corporate wellness programs, FHCP offers resources outside of traditional insurance that promote a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.

[i] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22270487/

[ii] https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/the-mental-health-benefits-of-nature-spending-time-outdoors-to-refresh-your-mind/

[iii] https://floridadep.gov/parks

[iv] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/9-benefits-of-hiking

[v] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1446271/pdf/10846502.pdf