Benefits Of Sleeping Outside: Why Your Backyard Is Better Than Bed
So you’re curled up in your cozy sleeping bag, the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze serves as your lullaby, and a canopy of stars twinkles above you.
No, you’re not on some fancy camping retreat – you’re just catching some z’s in your backyard.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Dude, why would I ditch my comfy bed for the great outdoors?”
Hold onto your hiking boots because sleeping outside might be the wellness hack you never knew you needed.
In our tech-obsessed world of smartphones, Netflix binges, and endless Zoom calls, we’ve strayed far from our ancestral roots.
Our bodies are craving a return to nature, and sleeping outdoors could be the answer. But don’t just take my word for it – science has got our backs on this one.
Have you ever wondered why you feel so darn good after a camping trip? Or why that afternoon snooze in your hammock leave you feeling like a million bucks?
Are you ready to discover how swapping your bedroom for the backyard could revolutionize your sleep, supercharge your immune system, and maybe even make you a morning person? (I know, crazy talk!)
Stick around, because we’re about to embark on a journey that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about getting a good night’s sleep.
Why Sleeping Outside is the Ultimate Wellness Hack
Let’s face it, our modern lifestyle is like a toddler on a sugar rush: hectic, unnatural, and bound to crash eventually.
We spend our days cooped up in offices, bathed in artificial light, and glued to our screens. It’s no wonder we’re all walking around like a bunch of sleep-deprived zombies!
We’re not designed for this 24/7, always-on lifestyle. Our bodies are still hardwired for a more natural way of living – just as Mother Nature intended.
You know, the kind where we rise with the sun, snooze when it’s dark, and don’t have to deal with a gazillion emails before breakfast.
This is where sleeping outdoors comes in like a breath of fresh air – literally! It’s like hitting the reset button on your body’s operating system.
By spending a night under the stars, you’re giving your body a chance to sync up with nature’s rhythms. It’s like a spa day for your circadian rhythm – it’s the perfect way to reset your sleep/wake cycle.
Before you start thinking this is just some hippie-dippy, tree-hugging, woo-woo nonsense, let me tell you that there’s actual science backing this up. Researchers have been poking and prodding at the benefits of sleeping outside, and they’ve found some juicy stuff about its impact on both mental and physical health!
So, are you ready to find out how ditching your bedroom for a night could be the key to unlocking better sleep, a stronger immune system, and a happier you? Buckle up, buttercup – we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of why sleeping outside is the wellness trend you never knew you needed!
The Science Behind Sleeping Outside
Alright, gather ’round because we’re about to drop some knowledge bombs that’ll make you want to grab your sleeping bag and head for the hills – or at least your backyard.
Resetting Your Circadian Rhythm
Remember that internal clock your body has? The one that tells you when to sleep, wake up, and raid the fridge at midnight? Well, that’s your circadian rhythm, and it gets messed up in our modern world.
A study published in Current Biology found that camping for just one weekend could shift people’s circadian rhythms by 2.5 hours. That’s right, sleeping outside for a couple of nights had people hitting the sack and waking up hours earlier than usual.
Harnessing the Power of Natural Light
I’ve been banging on about light and sleep quality in my articles about what color light is best for sleep and what colors help you sleep.
But if you’re wondering, “What’s the big deal about natural light?” Well, let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. Our bodies are designed to respond to the natural light-dark cycle, but we’ve gone and mucked it all up with our artificial lights and blue light-emitting devices.
When you sleep outside, you’re exposing yourself to the full spectrum of natural light. This helps regulate your melatonin levels (that’s the sleep hormone) and can lead to better sleep quality. It’s like giving your body’s internal clock a much-needed tune-up.
But wait, there’s more! Natural light exposure during the day can also boost your mood and energy levels. It’s like a free, all-natural energy drink – minus the jitters and weird aftertaste.
7 Amazing Benefits of Sleeping Outside (+1 Surprising Benefit)
Now that we’ve got the sciencey stuff out of the way, let’s dive into the juicy benefits of sleeping outside. Trust me, by the end of this list, you’ll be itching to set up camp in your backyard.
1. Improved Sleep Quality
Say goodbye to tossing and turning all night! Sleeping outside can lead to deeper, more restful sleep. The natural temperature drop at night signals your body that it’s time to snooze, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It’s like a lullaby for your entire body!
I’ve written more about the benefits of sleeping in a cold room.
2. Enhanced Mental Health
Feeling a bit frazzled lately? A night under the stars might be just what the doctor ordered. Spending time outdoors, especially overnight, can work wonders for your mental health.
It’s like a reset button for your brain, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, waking up to birdsong instead of a blaring alarm? That’s the kind of morning therapy we all need!
3. Boosted Immune System
Here’s a fun fact: sleeping outside exposes you to helpful microorganisms that can give your immune system a workout.
It’s like sending your white blood cells to the gym! Regular outdoor sleepers might catch fewer colds and bounce back faster when they get sick. Who knew fresh air could be such a powerful medicine?
4. Stress Reduction
Stressed out? Join the club. But here’s a tip: sleeping outdoors can help kick stress to the curb. The combination of fresh air, natural sounds, and connection with nature can lower your cortisol levels (that’s the stress hormone, folks).
It’s like a chill pill, but au naturel.
5. Better Cognitive Function
If you’ve ever felt sleepy or sluggish indoors, poor air quality might be the culprit. Sleeping outside gives your brain a mega dose of oxygen, which can improve your cognitive function.
It’s like Miracle-Gro for your brain cells!
6. Increased Oxygen Levels
Speaking of oxygen, sleeping outside is like giving your entire body an oxygen facial. Higher oxygen levels can lead to better overall health, from improved digestion to enhanced physical performance.
7. Mood Enhancement
Last but not least, sleeping outside can put a serious pep in your step. The combination of better sleep, reduced stress, and increased time in nature can boost your mood and overall sense of well-being.
(Bonus Benefit) Sleeping Outside May Affect Your Gut Microbiome?
Recent research has shown that spending time outdoors, including sleeping outside, can diversify your gut microbiome. A study published in Science found that Hadza hunter-gatherers in Tanzania, who sleep outdoors, have a more diverse gut microbiome that changes seasonally. This diversity is linked to better health outcomes, including improved immune function and lower rates of chronic diseases.
While this study doesn’t directly examine modern outdoor sleepers, it suggests that our indoor lifestyles may be limiting the diversity of our gut bacteria. Sleeping outside, even occasionally, might help introduce beneficial microbes to our system, potentially improving our overall health.
How to Start Sleeping Outside: Tips for Beginners
Alright, outdoor newbies, don’t worry – I’ve got your back. Starting your outdoor sleeping journey doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are some simple tips to get you started on your path to becoming a bonafide outdoor sleeping pro.
Essential Gear for Outdoor Sleeping
First things first, let’s talk gear. You don’t need to break the bank, but a few key items will make your outdoor sleeping experience much more comfortable:
- A good sleeping bag: This is your outdoor bed, so choose wisely! Look for one rated for the temperatures you’ll be sleeping in.
- Sleeping pad: Trust me, this isn’t just for comfort. It also insulates you from the cold ground. Your back will thank you.
- Tent (optional): If you’re not ready for full-on star-gazing, a tent can provide a sense of security and protection from the elements.
- Pillow: A good pillow can make all the difference between waking up refreshed or with a crick in your neck.
Choosing the Perfect Sleep Surface
Whether you’re car camping or setting up in your backyard, picking the right spot to lay your head is crucial. Look for flat, dry ground away from potential hazards like dead trees or ant hills.
And pro tip: a slight incline with your head uphill can actually be more comfortable than perfectly flat ground.
Safety Considerations
While sleeping outside is generally safe, it’s always good to be prepared. Let someone know where you’re sleeping, even if it’s just in your backyard. Keep your phone charged and nearby, and be aware of local wildlife.
And remember, there’s no shame in retreating indoors if the weather turns nasty!
Sleeping Outside vs. Sleeping Indoors: What’s the Difference?
Now, you might be thinking, “Sleep is sleep, right?” Wrong! There are some key differences between catching z’s in your bedroom and snoozing under the stars.
- Air Quality: Indoor air quality can be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Sleeping outside gives your lungs a break from indoor pollutants.
- Temperature Regulation: Your body naturally cools down at night. Sleeping outside allows for better temperature regulation, which can lead to deeper sleep.
- Light Exposure: Natural sunlight exposure, especially in the morning, helps regulate your circadian rhythms better than artificial light.
- Noise: While you might hear more nature sounds outside, you’re free from the hum of electronics and HVAC systems that can disrupt sleep indoors.
- Connection to Nature: There’s something primal and deeply satisfying about sleeping in nature that you just can’t replicate indoors.
Maximizing the Benefits: Combining Outdoor Sleep with Other Nature Activities
Want to supercharge your outdoor sleeping experience? Try pairing it with other nature-based activities for a full mind-body refresh.
Forest Bathing: A Perfect Complement to Outdoor Sleeping
Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku as it’s called in Japan, is the practice of immersing yourself in nature. Combine this with sleeping outside, and you’ve got yourself a powerful one-two punch for stress relief and overall wellness.
Spend a few hours wandering mindfully through nature before setting up camp for the night. The combination of forest bathing and outdoor sleeping can lead to reduced stress hormone levels, improved mood, and a stronger immune system.
It’s like a spa day, but way cheaper and arguably more effective!
Overcoming Common Challenges of Sleeping Outside
Let’s face it – sleeping outside isn’t always a walk in the park (pun intended). But don’t let these common challenges keep you from reaping the benefits of outdoor snoozing.
Dealing with Temperature Changes
Temperature can make or break your outdoor sleeping experience. Layer up with breathable clothing, and don’t be afraid to adjust your layers during the night.
Remember, it’s easier to cool down than to warm up, so err on the side of too warm when packing.
Managing Light and Sound
If you’re a light sleeper, the great outdoors might seem like a nightmare of potential disturbances. But fear not! A good eye mask can block out early morning light, and earplugs can muffle any unwanted nature noises.
Or, embrace the sounds of nature as your personal sleep soundtrack – many people find it more soothing than artificial white noise.
Conclusion
Let’s face it, we’ve lived in the wilderness for most of our existence on Earth. For you and me, however, it seems like such an alien thing to do… sleep outdoors.
The thing is, our bodies are still built and expect to be living outdoors as our ancestors did. Sleeping in a nice cosy bed is foreign to our primitive bodies.
So it makes sense that sleeping outdoors is healthy for us and our circadian rhythm.
I’ve had some of my best night’s rest sleeping outside. And, if you haven’t tried it already, I hope you give it a go. It can actually be fun – get the kids involved if you have any.
And what about with your partner – can it get more romantic than a night under the stars?
And that’s it… have a restful sleep!
FAQs
Is it good for you to sleep outside?
Absolutely! Sleeping outside offers numerous health benefits, including improved sleep quality, enhanced mental health, and a boosted immune system. Exposure to natural light and fresh air can reset your circadian rhythm, reduce stress, and increase oxygen levels in your body.
Can I just sleep outside?
Yes, you can! Sleeping outside is a great way to reconnect with nature and improve your overall well-being. Start with car camping or backyard sleeping to get comfortable. Remember to use a good sleeping bag and consider the weather conditions for a safe outdoor sleeping experience.
Is it safe to sleep outside without a tent?
Sleeping outside without a tent, also known as cowboy camping, can be safe if you take proper precautions. Check weather forecasts, choose a sheltered spot, use a ground cloth, and be aware of local wildlife. However, a tent provides additional protection from elements and potential disturbances.
Is it good to nap outside?
Napping outside can be incredibly beneficial. The fresh air and natural light exposure can help regulate your circadian rhythm and boost serotonin levels. Even a short outdoor nap can improve cognitive function, relieve stress, and enhance your mood. Just be sure to protect yourself from sunburn!
