It will be a surprise to no one that spending time outdoors is good for both your physical health and mental well-being and, now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to get back outside. According to The New York Times, a few studies have suggested that there may be added health benefits to birdwatching. The more obvious benefit is the length of time spent outdoors. Going for a walk is a great way to get a little exercise, but let’s face it, it can be boring. Adding the element of birdwatching can keep you outside longer because your brain is focused elsewhere. A benefit that may come as a bit of a surprise is that bird song can be good for our mental well-being. As people spend more and more time indoors, sitting, or looking at computers or phones, the physical and mental boost can make a big difference.
“It’s contagious. It’s addicting,” said Ms. Watts, who is writing a book called “Keep Looking Up: Your Guide to the Powerful Healing of Birdwatching.” “Birding really does cross over into so many areas of wellness, health and fitness.”
Another benefit to birding is its accessibility. Anyone can become a bird watcher. All you need is a spot and a bird. Although, you’ll find that most bird watching enthusiasts own a field guide and a set of binoculars. A field guide can help you recognize which birds are native to your area and when you’ll be most likely to see them. Which brings me to my second point. You don’t have to do much to be a bird watcher. What if you can’t or don’t want to get out and walk around? You can set up a bird haven in your very own yard. My husband and I did this, and then we got borderline obsessed with it. Naming the birds, watching their social dynamics, it’s all pretty interesting.
For feeders and feed, stop by your nearest Farmers Coop; we’ll get you set up!
Ryanne Harper