5 Healthy Reasons to Hang Out on a Porch Swing

by Nested Porch Swings October 11, 2020

Having a porch swing and using it frequently is an investment in your health

It’s that time of year again. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, the fire pits are heating up – all the sights, sounds, and smells of Fall are in the air! I love all the seasons, but I love Fall most all. I am celebrating Fall and the changing of the seasons, as I sit here on my porch swing, sipping my first coffee of the morning. This is my very most favorite spot to be – on the back patio, surrounded by my hanging ferns and potted hibiscus, listening to the songbirds and watching them fly from tree to tree. Soon, my patio plants and flowers will fade, along with the last remnants of summer, and the vibrant colors of summer will be replaced with yellows, oranges, and browns. It’s sweatshirt weather, at least at this time of the morning, and I couldn’t be in a happier place.

But the thing is, it’s not just Fall. I love to be in this spot every morning, regardless of the season. I enjoy all the moments from this swinging perch, and I appreciate the change of scenery that comes with different times of the year. Regardless of the season, I love to be on my patio swing, with my dachshund beside me and a morning cup of joe in my hand. Today, I am enjoying a special pumpkin spiced variety, which makes this moment even more special!

I love being in this little corner of the great outdoors, and in my opinion, there is no better way to start my day.

Most of the time, this is my quiet place, unless my little dachshund happens to stop napping in time to help move a squirrel through the yard. Other times, I get to share this space with my family, who always seem to be concerned that I might be lonely when they catch me spending time by myself. Some of these moments are more peaceful than others, but I cherish each and every one.

I am a huge believer in the health benefits of starting the day with a moment of calm and meditation, and I also believe in the natural beauty and healing powers that come from spending time outdoors.

But did you know, there are so many other benefits that come from spending time on your porch or patio swing?

Here is a list of the top 5 health and wellness benefits that come from spending time relaxing on your porch swing.

Reduces Stress: relaxation and reduced stress go hand in hand. We live in a stressful time, which can impact both our quality of life and our health. The rocking motion of the porch swing, coupled with the benefit of fresh air, can help you relax and can also lower cortisol, which is also known as the ‘stress hormone’.
Boosts Circulation: the rocking motion of the swing has been proven to improve blood circulation in the body. Maintaining healthy blood and oxygen flow throughout the body allows your heart and muscles to function properly and efficiently and can lead to a strengthened immune system.
Improves Concentration and Learning: the rocking motion of the porch swing also stimulates the cerebral cortex, which may improve focus and concentration. Improved concentration aids in retention and improved learning. What a great excuse to incorporate the porch swing into the homework routine!
Increases Energy: depending on the location of your porch swing, you may get the added benefit from exposure to little doses of sunlight. Sunlight helps boost a chemical in your brain called serotonin, which can give you more energy while also keeping you calm, positive, and focused. But don’t forget the sunscreen!
Improves Sleep: according to experts, the back-and-forth motion of the porch swing can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. As an added bonus, reduced anxiety can also lead to better sleep and better overall health. Yes, please!

There is a definite link between being outdoors, relaxation, and stress relief, and the great news is that you can focus on all of the many health benefits from the comfort of your own porch or patio!

Crisp Fall Days Are Meant to Be Enjoyed Outdoors

There are so many things I am looking forward to doing this Fall with my family, from pumpkin picking to roasting marshmallows over the fire pit, to raking leaves and jumping in leaf piles . As long as the weather allows, a great deal of our time will be spent enjoying the great outdoors.

Having a porch swing and using it frequently is an investment in your health

If you don’t already own a porch swing, don’t worry. Here we’ve listed our top 5 picks for the most relaxing porch swings and swing beds, so you can get your relaxation on soon!