Why Being Outdoors is Beneficial for Fibromyalgia Relief

The chronic pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia give patients a good excuse to not go outdoors. However, what most fibromyalgia patients do not know is that being outdoors is beneficial for their chronic pain condition and can provide relief from pain, fatigue, moodiness and even fibro fog. Here are the reasons why being outdoors is beneficial for fibromyalgia relief:

A boost of vitamin D from the sun

Often we overlook the importance of getting exposed to sunlight. A study found that 3 out of 4 Americans are deficient in Vitamin D. This can be easily rectified by simply spending 10-30 minutes in the sun each day. Vitamin D is also found to play a vital role in chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia, chronic lower back pain, headaches etc. Vitamin D supplements have also been found to provide pain relief in fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions.

Being outdoors enhances your mood

There is a very strong connection between fibromyalgia, stress and depression. When you suffer from a chronic condition like fibromyalgia, the constant body pain and fatigue can be stressful and depressive. Studies show that a group walk in the park or in any natural landscape can elevate mood and help in reducing stress.

It also improves your immune system

Spending time outdoor in the midst of nature has a positive impact on your immune system. You get a natural immunity boost as your body prepares to fight against the viruses. A 2008 study done by a group of Japanese found that walking 6 hours over 2 days in the forest increase anti-virus and anti-cancer cells in subjects. Fibromyalgia patients do not spend much time outside due to their physical condition but if you make effort to do so daily, there is every possibility of improving your overall health and fibromyalgia.

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