According to a University of Michigan study, kids spent two fewer hours each week on outdoor activities in the early 2000s than kids did in the early 1980s. Indoor activities without moving are more popular. Most people in the study spend most of their free time watching TV (85%) or playing computer games (81%). "This causes over-weight, greater stress and more physical and emotional (情绪的) illnesses," says Richard Louv, a nature writer.
In fact, outdoor activities such as taking a friend along, kicking around a ball and taking photos can help. It is important for kids to play outside.
Firstly, outdoor activities open up your senses. You will feel better after spending time outside. "Surfing, camping and fishing help bring all of your senses to life," says Betsy Keller, a professor at Ithaca College in New York. "Smell, sight. they're all active when you're outside." With your senses get stronger, you'll feel free and more creative.
Playing outside helps your body. When playing outside, you can be on hills, beaches or lakes instead of a flat floor. Different areas offer special fun and challenge your strength and balance (平衡). It also helps keep your body's clock on track so that you sleep better at night and feel less sleepy during the day.
Outdoor play also makes your mind relax. Too much time indoors, such as watching TV or activities in non-green areas, may make it hard for kids to focus their attention and easy to feel stressed out. But staying in the nature helps them concentrate (全神贯注) and lowers their stress levels.
Besides, spending time outdoors brings you closer to the environment. Hearing the leaves crackle underfoot, breathing in fresh air, walking through the woods in search of cool birds remind you of the beauty of the nature. You needn't go to the countryside. ▲ . It can be your own backyard or that block of trees at the end of the street.
So the next time you sit down to spend time with a TV, consider treating yourself to a little outdoor play instead.
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