If you’re already the owner of a Bucks County backyard living space, chances are you don’t need any convincing to spend more time there. But for those considering making an investment into a backyard construction project, add scientific evidence to the list of reasons it may be a good idea. According to The New York Times, several different studies have found links between time spent in nature and positive changes in physical and mental health.
In one Stanford University study, a group of 38 participants was asked to complete a survey on their mood, and were then split into two groups. The first group was asked to walk near a loud, busy highway. The second group walked through a green, quiet, more natural part of Stanford’s campus. Following the walk, both groups were reevaluated on their mood. The first group’s results were unchanged and most exhibited high levels of negative thought patterns. However, the second group saw slight positive changes in their second survey, and exhibited fewer negative thought patterns.
Why You Should Use Your Bucks County Backyard Space Year-Round
If you’re considering adding a backyard living space to your property, you probably have a few motivations in mind. You may desire a comfortable place to bond with family and friends while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors during long summer nights. But time spent outdoors is just as valuable during the colder seasons of the year. Spending time in your backyard can have a positive impact in the following areas:
- Reduce Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Commonly known as the winter blues, SAD is thought to result from a shortage of natural light and decreased time spent outdoors during the darkest, coldest months of the year. Bundling up and embracing the cold in the comfort of your Bucks County backyard living space can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Increase Vitamin D – Absorbing Vitamin D from the sun’s rays is an important part of our health. Vitamin D deficiency can result in mental health problems like depression, while absorbing a healthy amount of Vitamin D can improve heart health.
- Reduce Stress – As noted in the Stanford study, time spent in a natural environment can have positive effects on our thought patterns. Relaxing in your Bucks County backyard living space at the end of a stressful workday is an excellent way to decompress.
If you suffer from the winter blues or live a stressful lifestyle, a Bucks County backyard living space may be the sanctuary you need to connect with nature and improve your health in a variety of ways. Contact Paul Construction today to get started on your dream project. We look forward to working with you!
