As spring is in full swing, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outside with nature and enjoy the weather. Some people turn to hiking to get in their exercise in the great outdoors, though if you’re looking for a sport a little more relaxing, fishing may be right up your alley.
Fishing may not come to mind when you think about sports, though there are numerous physical and mental health benefits to this timeless pastime.
It keeps you fit
When fishing your heart, lungs, and main muscle groups will get a great workout, burning around 200 calories an hour. Activities like setting up lines, casting them, and reeling in fish require some strength and engage your core, shoulders, arm, back, and legs. Over eight million people live within 1000 meters of their local fishing canal, so if you manage to track yours down, you’ll also get some extra steps on the journey there.
It reduces stress
Being near water lowers anxiety and instills a sense of calm within us. Stress is linked to an increased risk of several diseases and with 40 percent of adults lying awake with stress at night fishing is the perfect medicine to combat this.
It allows you to unplug
Fishing is a great opportunity to escape your work emails and game console and lets you completely connect with nature. You can clear your mind from our hectic culture by tuning into the relaxing sounds of the water, birds, and leaves and focusing on the beautiful scenery mother nature has provided.
It increases your vitamin D
Sitting outside all day can help top up vitamin D levels, needed for regulation of metabolism, the immune system, mood, protection from diseases, development of bones, and more. Even when the sky is gray that’s no excuse as some vitamin D can still enter your system through the clouds.
It improves your concentration
Studies have shown spending time in nature changes your brain and improves levels of concentration. By taking note of the calming and slow-paced environment around you, your attention span is sure to increase.
It’s social
Being around people who share a similar hobby is a great way to connect with people and create a community for yourself.
