Long-term relief from eczema isn't just found through creams, medications or supplements but also through lifestyle changes, and this should include simple daily habits like more time spent outdoors.
The healing benefits of nature go beyond the physical; being in natural environments can support both mind and body, making it a valuable complement to conventional eczema care. Let’s explore how a daily dose of the outdoors can help calm the skin and support long-term healing.
1. More Sunlight will Boost Vitamin D Levels
Sunlight is one of our best sources of vitamin D, a nutrient that plays a vital role in skin health and immune regulation. Many with eczema have lower vitamin D levels, and moderate sun exposure can help boost these levels naturally. Vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce flare-ups while promoting healthier skin.
2. Reduces Stress Levels - A common Eczema Trigger
Being in nature reduces stress, which is a known trigger for eczema. Studies show that even short periods outdoors can lower cortisol levels, leading to lower levels of inflammation, a stronger immune system and so much more.
3. Supports a Healthy Skin Microbiome
Contact with natural elements like soil, plants, and fresh air exposes us to beneficial bacteria, which can help balance the skin’s microbiome. A balanced microbiome is key to reducing the severity of eczema, making nature a simple yet effective way to support skin health.
4. Provides Clean, Humid Air
Nature, particularly in forested or coastal areas, offers cleaner, more humid air than most indoor environments. Humidity helps prevent the dryness that can trigger eczema, while cleaner air may reduce the skin's exposure to common indoor allergens and pollutants. Indoor air can be up to 100 times more outdoor air, depending on the environment!
5. Encourages Physical Activity
Being outdoors naturally increases our activity levels, which boosts circulation and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Physical activity also supports lymphatic drainage, helping clear toxins that may contribute to skin inflammation.
6. Improves Sleep Quality
Natural sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, which is essential for quality sleep. Better sleep is key to skin repair and can help reduce eczema symptoms over time.
7. Promotes Mindfulness and Grounding
Nature has a way of grounding us, encouraging mindfulness and calm. This grounding effect helps slow down the nervous system, allowing the body to focus on healing. Practices like walking barefoot on natural surfaces (grounding) can reduce inflammation and improve overall balance.
Integrating time in nature can be a gentle yet powerful addition to your eczema care routine. Aiming for 15–30 minutes outside daily can be an effective, enjoyable way to support skin healing and overall well-being. Shoes off is a bonus and will increase the benefits you'll experience.
This obviously isn't a quick fix so we can't expect that doing this for a few days will mean that your eczema will heal and never come back! But it's a very powerful long-term strategy to help with eczema management and improving your overall health.
Belinda x
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