Let’s go fishing! Why not?
When was the last time you packed up your fishing gear and set out to be one with nature? Man and fishing are like peanut butter and jelly — they just go together. In fact, around 50 million Americans six years and older engage in various types of fishing activity at least once a year.
If that alone doesn’t convince you to grab a fishing pole and hit the freshwater, how about the many health benefits of fishing? Surprisingly, there are several reasons to fish that your doctor might approve of. Explore some of these health benefits below.
Time Outdoors
How much time do you spend in the great outdoors?
Do you get outside for at least a half an hour each day? If not, take up fishing for beginners and soak up the health benefits of being in Mother Nature’s living room. Recent studies show that spending time outside benefits everything from your mental health to your heart.
Breathing fresh air can boost your mood and lower your stress level, thus lowering your body’s Cortisol levels. This chain reaction of health leads to lower blood pressure and a strong, steady heartbeat. Furthermore, being near water promotes even more relaxation and a chance to boost your immune system.
A Healthier Diet
When you return from your fishing adventure, do you plan to eat what you catch?
Assuming you’re fishing in clean water and your catch is edible, you can count on a healthier diet. Perhaps you won’t adapt a fully pescetarian diet, but eating more fish will keep your body young and your mind nimble.
A new report proves that oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel can boost brain function while lowering your blood pressure. Omega3 fatty acids are responsible for rejuvenating your body in this way. Though this is not guaranteed, eating fish rich with Omega3 on a consistent basis may reverse some of the damage done to your heart by red meat consumption..
A More Active Lifestyle
As you grab your best fishing pliers and set off for a day on the river, consider how much more active you are than if you stayed home to play video games. That’s right — another health benefit of fishing is a more active lifestyle.
If you go fishing, you don’t have to think about how many times a week you should go to the gym to keep up your cardio. You can afford to stop counting steps and start enjoying a more organic form of exercise. Whether you rush to reel in a good catch or you walk to fish at a better location, your body moves naturally without much discipline or forethought on your part.
Beyond the Benefits of Fishing
Are you ready to head out to your favorite fishing spot and catch some sun and fresh air along the way?
From more time spent outside to a healthier diet and a more active lifestyle, the health benefits of fishing far outweigh any cons. It’s time to give fishing a fair shot.