Doctors have said for a long time that adding exercise to your regular lifestyle can not only help you improve your physical health, but can help improve your mental health as well. Many people decide to take up a sport in order to get their recommended exercise, with golf being a popular choice. Golf’s many physical benefits include the reduction of chronic illnesses, heart disease, and bone fractures. What is not as well-known is that golf also provides numerous health benefits for both children and adults alike.
It has long been said that maintaining an active lifestyle can improve one’s overall health, including their mental health. For many people around the world, playing golf oftentimes provides the much needed break from the stresses of daily life. Whether they began playing golf as a new hobby or working to play competitively, the sport can boost one’s mood and overall wellbeing. Additionally, research has shown that golf can reduce the risk of anxiety, depression, and dementia.
Social Interactions
Golf is a very social sport. Given the time that it takes to cross a golf course, whether by foot or golf cart, there are ample opportunities to interact with other golfers. Additionally, single players or pairs are often times placed with other golfers to complete a foursome. This provides players a chance to get to know new people, and build lasting connections on the golf course. While golf can be a competitive and individual sport, it still offers the benefit of social interactions among players.
Time Outdoors
Getting time to be outside, breathing in fresh air and experiencing the views can help keep depression and anxiety at bay. A study by the University of Washington found that when golfers experience nature, it helps to restore the mind of mental fatigue that comes with work or studies. It also can lead to improved work performance or satisfaction. Getting time outdoors provides natural sunlight that can also promote relaxation and improved moods.
Better Sleep Habits
Playing golf on a consistent basis can also help improve a person’s sleep. In general, maintaining an active lifestyle has been known to improve a person’s ability to sleep because of the energy that is exerted, and the same concept applies to golf. Sleep has long been connected to a person’s overall health. A person who does not get enough sleep consistently becomes more susceptible to mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Staying active through golf can help a person fight sleep disorders while promoting long-term health.
Overall, golf provides countless physical and mental benefits that can not only extends a person’s life, but can improve their quality of life as well. Whether you take up golf to become more active, or as a form of therapy, golf has countless benefits. A sport that is steeped in American tradition, adults and children can enjoy the countless benefits of golf.