by Clarissa Hartley

As cyclonic forces whip up a frenzy outside your window, invite them in. Indeed, replacing the cosy confines of home with the unpredictable and lively hum of windy weather harbors sanative secrets. Exercising, be it a brisk walk, a revitalizing run, or a cycling spree amidst gusty gales, offers an all-natural and invigorating stress-buster.

An excellent way to soak up the thrill of the outdoors is to take a leaf out of the Dutch book of wellness. The Netherlands, known for its wind-swept landscapes, encourages a practice called “uitwaaien”. The essence of it translates to “out blow,” intending to harness the rejuvenating properties of the wind through physical exertion. Embracing windy weather helps dispel tension, anxiety, whilst invigorating a sense of freedom and exhilaration unique to this cardio endeavor.

The Magic of Outdoor Workouts

Health benefits of unfurling under open skies and natural terrains is undeniably supreme. A research published in Environmental Science & Technology confirmed that outdoor activities instill a robust sense of vitality and fulfillment. “Immersing oneself in wild winds, even for a brief span of 10 minutes, could be a potent antidote to mental strain, uplifting moods, and reducing stress outfits,” according to psychologist Kezia Luckett. The raw energy of the wind, the sprawling landscapes, fosters a sense of expansion as opposed to the confined and monotonous environment of gyms.

Windy Weather: A Route to Stress Relief

Not only the raw vitality of the wind amplifies your psychophysiological wellness, but it also propels you to rise above feelings of lethargy and dejection. According to sports trainer Kerry Dixon, fighting natural elements like wind nurtures one’s grit, resilience, hence strengthening them physically and psychologically. “To combat a strong headwind on varied terrains results in adaptive muscular responses, enhancing strength with every stride,” asserts Kerry.

Running on a Windy Day

Running against strong winds calls for drawing upon one’s inner strength, attention to form, and core strength. Alternatively, harnessing the benefits of the wind while it is to your back offers an exhilarating and liberating feeling of sprinting with almost effortless ease. Imagine a gust of wind helping you glide smoothly over the terrain, making you feel powerful and uplifted!

Boost Your Wellbeing Amidst Windy Whirlwinds

Submerging yourself in gusty gales fires up a plethora of well-being benefits. Psychologist Kezia suggests using wind as a metaphor for discharging the stressful clutter of the mind. “As the strength of the wind humbles you, visualize the stress being dispelled with every blustery gust,” she recommends. Returning to our childhood, capturing those moments of wonderment as you chase swirling leaves blown across the park, pushes you closer to nature and farther from stress.

Next time stress shadows you and you’re searching for an escape, remember the answer might just be blowing in the wind!

windy weather workouts, outdoor activities, stress relief, Dutch wellness trend uitwaaien, natural stress-busters, environmental immersion, wellbeing amid nature