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Author: Jon Sutton
Source: Outdoor Empire
Oct. 17, 2017
Anyone who’s ever been fishing knows that it is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a few hours on a pretty day. But few understand that fishing isn’t just a good time; it is also a great way to keep your mind and body healthy. So, whether you are vacationing in the Port Washington area, or you live here all year long, you should make some time to head on out to the water – you’ll have a great time and help your health in the process.
There are a number of different ways fishing can help your health, but a few of the most notable include:
1. Sunlight exposure boots your immune system.
A healthy immune system can help your body fight off colds and other illnesses, so it makes sense to keep it operating as efficiently as possible. One of the best ways to do so is by getting regular exposure to unfiltered sunlight, and fishing provides a great chance to do just that. Just be sure to practice sun-safety, and wear an appropriate sunscreen while you are out.
2. Natural views help your body to heal.
Doctors have long known that views of the natural world help accelerate the healing process and reduce the pain experienced following injuries, illnesses and surgeries. In fact, modern hospitals are often designed to provide patient beds with views of green spaces. You can enjoy these same benefits by simply heading out to Lake Michigan, and enjoying the scenery while your fish.
3. Fishing can help reduce your blood pressure.
Many people struggle with high blood pressure and find it necessary to take medications to reduce their chances of heart attack and stroke. However, some lifestyle changes can also help keep your blood pressure at a proper level. For example, spending more time outdoors – perhaps at your favorite fishing hole – helps to reduce your blood pressure a little bit in both the short and long term.
4. Fish is a great protein source.
It is certainly important to protect local fish populations and manage them properly to ensure their long-term survival, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the occasional fish or two home for the dinner table. This is especially true of the more common fish in our region, such as salmon, steelhead, lake trout and brown trout. Fish is not only a very lean protein source that makes a wonderful part of a balanced diet, it is also a delicious ingredient that pairs well with just about everything. Just be sure to follow Wisconsin’s laws and regulations regarding the harvest of fish, so you stay on the right side of the law.
5. Fresh air helps keep your lungs healthy.
The polluted air that surrounding most cities and roadways takes a toll on your lungs, and it has led to an increase in the rates of asthma and other respiratory disorders. But you can give your lungs a break by spending some time in green spaces that are surrounded by trees, rather than cars, furnaces and factories. Fishing provides a great chance to do just that, while also enjoying the other benefits outlined above.
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These are just a few of the surprising ways that fishing can help keep you healthy and happy. You can learn about a number of other surprising health benefits fishing provides by checking out Outdoor Empire’s comprehensive review of the topic.
Click here to read more about the benefits of fishing at OutdoorEmpire.com »
