Since the beginning of time, the human race has been closely linked to nature. Our early ancestors didn't have homes: they lived in tents, caves, and other forms of natural shelter. As the lifestyle evolution progressed to what we know today, people settled into homes built on farms or in small towns. These became cities and eventually towns. As a population we have moved away from this lifestyle immersed in nature, especially in recent decades. Today we spend most of our time indoors, doing homework or watching television; don't experience nature. The great outdoors brings so many unrealized benefits, but we don't take advantage of them or experience them as much as we should. In general, physical activity is known to reduce the risk of many diseases and help prolong life. Just 2 hours and 30 minutes of physical activity a week can help reduce your chances of developing life-threatening and chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and type 2 diabetes. Being active can also help lower blood pressure and improve blood levels. of cholesterol. Studies show that people who are active for seven or more hours a week are 40% less likely to die early than those who are active for only 30 minutes a week or less (The Benefits). In addition to lower risk of certain diseases, regular exercise can help strengthen bones and muscles. Research shows that moderate aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activity can slow the loss of bone density, which inevitably comes with age. Physical activity can help reduce the risk of hip fracture (a serious health condition) and helps with arthritis. It also helps control weight and build strong, healthy muscles (The Bene...... middle of document ......b. March 6, 2014."Health Benefits." nwf.org. Web. 2 April 2014. Meininger, Katheryn. “Ten Reasons Hiking is Good for You.” livestrong.com 18 December 2013. Web 5 March 2014. Reynolds, Gretchen 21 February 2013. 30 March 2014. Robinson, Kara Mayer hiking is good for the body and mind." WebMD.com 2013. Web March 6, 2014. Ryan, Richard "Spending Time in Nature Makes People Feel More Alive, Study Shows rochester.edu June 3, 2010. Web . 10 March 2014. Taylor, Steve. “The Power of Nature: Ecotherapy and Awakening.” 2014. “What if stop going out." youtube.com ASAP Science. March 12, 2014. "Why nature is therapeutic." crchealth.com March 14. 2014.