Kellen Pies ‘24, Copy Editor
As spring approaches and the weather finally starts to get warm, sports and outdoor activities begin to pick back up. Organized school sports like lacrosse, golf, and baseball are highly anticipated by the athletes of SLHS, and those who are more casual about their physical activity in the spring enjoy leisurely things like walks, golf scrambles, or a simple game of catch.
The physical benefits of spring sports and outdoor activities are never understated, but there is more value to be found in these activities rather than just the physical components. According to an article written for the University of Bridgeport News, sports can also aid academic performance: “Exercise of any kind can increase blood flow to the brain, which helps the body build more connections between nerves. . . With increased concentration levels, students can stay engaged during lectures, retain information more easily, and focus and study for exams longer.” That is not to say that playing organized sports immediately improves one’s academic prowess and motivation, but it statistically does make a difference.
Even if a student does not see their grades increasing, team sports can be beneficial to both one’s social life and mental health. Senior and varsity lacrosse player Ethan Blair said, “Having a tight group of guys is great, and they all work together to motivate you inside and outside of lacrosse.” In the right environment, and with the right mindset, school sports teams can act as a gateway to new friendships. Even single-person sports like golf that rely on independent skill can still allow for a community to develop within a group of players. “The weeks coming out of winter are always really dreary for me. My mood is usually not very positive. Once golf starts up I have something I am passionate about to do, and it helps me have a good mood to carry me into the back half of the school year,” senior and varsity golfer Garret Cashen said. Golf is just one example, however, and this applies to any spring sport or activity. Many feel the same about winter, so give fresh air and physical activity a shot this spring.
But every situation is different, and students may not be able to join an organized team for a number of reasons. Thankfully, there are multiple benefits both physically and mentally from a casual walk or a quick pickup game of hoops. Physical activity of all sorts has been proven to reduce blood pressure, manage one’s weight, strengthen one’s heart, and reduce stress levels. According to an article for FirelandsHealth, “When you are outside, the fresh air can help raise oxygen levels in your brain, which increases serotonin levels. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter that alters your mood.” After the dreariness of the winter, the sun tends to shine more often in the spring, and it is never a bad idea to catch sunlight. UV light has been proven to help conditions like scaly red skin, along with a boost in the ever-essential vitamin D.
Whether you are a committed athlete or prefer casual strolls with your dog, it is always recommended to get outside as early as possible during spring. Physical activity, sun exposure, and fresh air improve one’s physical and mental health, and even one’s motivation within school. Now that it is March, do not be afraid to try a new sport, hit up friends for casual play, or relax in the sun.
Lyon Life 