Most teenagers here at San Luis Obispo High School have difficulties parting with the indoors, and question why they should step outside when they could be on the couch, binge-watching episodes of “Breaking Bad”. I am here to tell you that the outdoors is a place that not only benefits the mind and the body, but also provides exploration, adventure, and beauty.

“I take time out of my week to photograph the outdoors and surround myself with the views that San Luis Obispo has to offer…It refreshes me and brings me happiness,” said sophomore Nicole Kasper.

It is important to take advantage of the outdoors, especially when living in an area such as SLO. Aside from the exceedingly large amount of extra-curricular activities/sports to play, there are mountains to hike, paths for biking, and waters to surf.

A study in Australia has shown that teens that engaged in more moderate-to-vigorous outdoor activity reported better health and social functioning than their peers who spent hours in front of the television and computer screens.

“I’m outside being active around 15 hours a week…It definitely improves my health and motivates me to hike and run,” said junior Elizabeth Willey.

I continue to learn that just the smallest amount of outdoor exercise de-stresses the mind, improves the body, and provides focus and determination. In order to lead a healthy lifestyle I advise others to get up from the couch, and step out into the outdoors where you can explore nature, rather than your Netflix instant queue.

Source: usnews.com