With last week being the official start of summer, I decided to round up the girls (and my mom… she helps me all the time!) and head down to Balboa Island for a morning picnic of donuts on the sand. And while it would have been easy to simply sit in the donut shop, sip my tea, and watch Harper enjoy the deliciousness, I opted to head outdoors for the morning…. salt air, sand in our toes, and ocean sounds were just what we were craving….

I love that summer brings with it longer days… the sun rises earlier (so bright for my early morning runs) and sets later (great for al fresco dining)… and lots of outdoor time. My mood is bright + cheerful, and we all sleep soundly (well, considering we have a newborn, some of us sleep sounder than others) as most of our days are spent outside. I’ve always known the benefits of spending time outside, in nature, and so when Harper asked me why we “were going outside” (she’s in the million questions phase) I was able to back it up with some solid research as to why spending time outdoors is important…..

1. Eyesight: Studies have shown that being outside, and in the sunlight, can help reduce nearsightedness in children. The sunlight doesn’t have to be very bright, but about two to three hours a day can really be of benefit for the kiddos…

2. Helps With Mental Health: Being outside in nature… and going for walks… has been shown to reduce anxiety, negative rumination, and negative affect… basically leading to more positive emotional experiences.

3. Reduction in Stress Levels: Pretty self explanatory. Whenever I find myself stressed out, I typically give myself a little break, head outside for a quick walk, and most of the time come back feeling less stressed + anxious.

4. Better Overall Health: Research showed that those who spent time outdoors had better overall health and longevity. So having access to trails, parks, and outdoor facilities is important.

5. Increased/Strengthened Immunity: And who doesn’t need this?? Especially with kiddos running around….

And for all my outdoor needs this summer, Backcountry has me (well, our entire family) covered. They have such a wide selection of both lifestyle items, as well as outdoor activity equipment, that they make it an easy one stop shop for all things summer. Since we spend a lot of time at the beach during the summer months, I picked up a few new items to get us through the summer. This macrame Beach People tote is roomy enough to fit all our beach essentials (a large beach blanket, cover-ups, and some snacks….) + their selection of L* Space swimsuits (one of my all time favorite swimwear lines) is excellent (I also grabbed this white one piece suit… and love that both can also be worn as bodysuits). With one of our favorite summer activities being beach picnics, especially at sunset, these loose fitting pants are the perfect cover-up… easy to toss on and incredibly comfortable.

To ensure you’re outdoor summer ready too, Backcountry has extended a 15% discount (some exclusions apply) with code INDULGE15. 

Here’s to a summer filled with fun outdoor adventures friends!
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(Outfit Details || Swimsuit (wearing size 6) | Pants | Shoes | Hat | Sunglasses | Tote Bag | Harper’s Jumpsuit | Harper’s Shoes | Harper’s Backpack | Camille’s Jumpsuit | Beach Blanket | Yeti Mug)

Thank you to Backcountry for sponsoring this post. As always, all opinions are my own + I purchased my own products.