Classrooms can be constricting. Both physically and mentally. It’s hard to move past a mental block when you feel like you’re stuck inside of a concrete one. That’s not to say a classroom setting is all bad. Trite, motivational posters can be a nice visual while you’re trying to write an essay. We all need a break though. You can only stare at a butterfly picture telling you to do your best for so many days. How much does an insect really know about the quadratic equation?

   There’s not much we can do to solve this without a little help from our educators, though. So, why don’t teachers give their students, and themselves, a break? Holding class outside is amazing. Whether you’re just going through a test together or having an actual lesson, it’s a pleasant surprise to find out class is on the lawn, at least for a day. It makes students more excited to be in school, and it gets everyone out of the building on nice days. Why don’t we go outside for class more often?

  Sunlight makes us more alert and awake. Which is necessary to actually retain and apply the information being taught. Having minimum exposure to natural light is actually very bad for our circadian rhythm, and can be the cause of sleepless nights. Sunlight programs our sleep cycles, and it’s almost too easy to throw it off without sunlight.   Humans don’t photosynthesize, but sunlight still benefits our health. Vitamin D from UV rays help strengthen our bones, and sunlight helps relieve stress. Healthline recommends getting a little bit of sun daily, if possible, to boost serotonin levels and prevent seasonal affective disorder (SAD), as well. Being outside benefits our education and our health.

  Take one for the class and have a mock recess, but with learning. It’s good for all of us, so let’s embrace it while it’s so nice!