Go outside to brighten your outlook and boost your health

Spring has sprung, and that means the Black Hills will soon be beautifully painted with gorgeous flowers and bright skies. The area is an adventure seekers dream come true, and connecting with nature can also benefit your mental and physical health. Experiencing nature, vitamin D and fresh air are proven to improve cognitive functions and help you be happier. 

Nature’s benefits

Being outdoors and connecting with nature is a form of natural medicine. For example, around 10 million Americans say that they experience seasonal depression when the weather is cold and days are short. When warmer, longer days come around, they feel their spirits lift. Savoring the spring can help you feel more energized and joyful. Seeing the bright blue skies, sitting outside in the sunshine or seeing a baby animal can have positive impacts on your brain.

Nature’s soundtrack — birds chirping and the whisper of gentle wind stirring the leaves of a blossoming tree — has a powerful ability to soothe and calm. No wonder online video channels and apps featuring springtime sounds have millions of viewers and users. When you’re outside and experiencing these sounds firsthand, you reap the awesome benefits directly.

Connect with nature in the Black Hills

Take advantage of all the benefits offered by spring in the Black Hills.

Go on a good old-fashioned hike to experience nature through all your senses. Choose a beginner trail that is a mile or less or take a longer hike to refresh your mind and get your exercise at the same time.

For an elevated natural experience, go flower hunting. Search for pink, purple and yellow flowers along the way. Gather them up, inhale their fragrance and then take a photo once you reach your destination.

A quick online search for hiking trails in the Black Hills will bring up multiple options so you can find the one that fits your experience.

Relaxing post-hike

Take the rest you deserve after your walk or hike. Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort and Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort are both located conveniently in the heart of Deadwood, South Dakota, a very popular hiking area. Both places are excellent options to stop and revive post-hike.

If you’re not yet ready to go inside after your hike, choose a venue with outdoor dining. Enjoy your food, experience the warmth of the sun and keep breathing that fresh air. The rooftop Vertex Sky Bar has amazing views of Rapid City. Fire pits help keep you warm on a chilly day and keep the bugs away. Paddy O’Neill’s Irish Pub & Grill in Rapid City, Best Brews in Deadwood, and FLYT Steakhouse by Alpine Inn in Deadwood all offer fantastic outdoor seating to help you enjoy the sun.

Flowers are in bloom, splashing the Black Hills landscape. Be sure to experience all of nature’s bountiful, restorative powers this season.