The summer heat is here, and while it’s important to take care in the sun, don’t let the weather keep you indoors. Research shows a direct connection between our well-being and time spent outside. It’s one of the simplest ways to reset your mind and body.
At The Educator Academy, our goal is to support teachers in being highly effective. And we know that when you’re well, you show up with more clarity, energy, and capacity for impact. In this issue, we’re sharing local outdoor opportunities, surprising benefits of getting outside, and simple steps to help you recharge as you gear up for a new school year.
The Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time outdoors can improve more than your mood. Just a few minutes outside each day can:
- Strengthens your immune and nervous system by reducing stress ¹, ⁶
- Can lower blood pressure and signals your muscles to relax ², ⁴, ⁵
- Lowers stress and effects of anxiety and depression ¹
- Boosts your bodies production of Vitamin D after only 15 minutes of safe, sun exposure ³
- Improves sleep by syncing melatonin with the sun ³
Source 1, Source 2, Source 3, Source 4 Source 5, Source 6
Easy Ways to Take Your Work Outside
- Maximize moods by taking work time outside. Even 10 minutes of sun exposure can boost moods. Invest in class clipboards and get outdoors!
- Feel intense stress? Ask your team to take your planning meeting mobile with a walk around the block.
- Spending more time online? Create a daily routine that includes outdoor time–walk before work, take your laptop outside to grade or read, or hop on the sidewalk for a brisk walk down your street!
Website: 40 Fun and Engaging Outdoor Science Projects and Activities
Article: National Geographic’s Outdoor Classroom Tips
Pinterest: Connection’s Academy Pinterest Board for Outdoor
Podcast: The Power of Outdoor Learning
Instagram: Out Teach (Outdoor Lesson Ideas)
Community Connection Partner with Kansas City Community Gardens OR volunteer to care for your school’s garden
YOGA: Karma Tribe Yoga– Donation Based Yoga
FREE YOGA: Outdoor Yoga on the lawn at the Nelson-Atkins
LOCAL CLASSES: KC YMCA is an affordable space for movement AND offers online classes (including Body Pump!)
DANCE: Want to brush up on those childhood dance classes? Dance, Fit, Flow is an adult dance studio! Or maybe you want to learn for the first time? Check out KC Ballet for all types of dance
LEAGUES: Any team you can imagine is available in KC! Kickball and softball, Volleyball, Pickleball, or Cornhole!
SUPPORT LOCAL: Kamba Fit: Support Black business owner at this amazing Westport gym