Posted by Louise Carter
on May 16, 2025
Letting babies nap outside, common in many Nordic countries, has some surprising benefits when done safely and appropriately. Here are the main benefits of babies sleeping outside:
1. Better Sleep Quality
-
Longer Naps: Studies from countries like Finland and Sweden suggest babies often sleep longer outdoors than indoors.
-
More Restful Sleep: The fresh air and consistent background noise (like rustling leaves or distant traffic) can promote deeper sleep.
2. Exposure to Natural Light
-
Regulates Circadian Rhythms: Natural daylight helps babies develop a healthy sleep-wake cycle more quickly.
-
May Reduce Risk of Colic: Some evidence suggests natural light exposure helps ease fussiness by regulating melatonin and other hormones.
3. Boosts Immune System
-
Fresh Air Advantage: Being outside exposes babies to diverse (and safe) microbes, which may help build a stronger immune system.
-
Less Germ Exposure: Compared to indoor environments, outdoor air is less likely to circulate viruses and bacteria in close quarters.
4. Connection to Nature
-
Stimulates the Senses: Outdoor naps encourage a baby’s developing brain to become familiar with natural sounds, light, and smells.
-
Early Habit Formation: Builds comfort with being outdoors, encouraging active, nature-connected lifestyles later in life.
5. Parental Well-being
-
Mental Health Boost: Caregivers often benefit from the calming effect of being outside too, even if they're just nearby watching the baby.
-
Breaks Cabin Fever: Getting outside, especially during winter, can be refreshing and help combat isolation and seasonal blues.
-
Releases Endorphins: Walking increases the release of endorphins and other "feel-good" chemicals like dopamine.
-
Reduces Anxiety and Depression: Regular movement, even at a slow pace, helps manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.
-
Boosts Mood: Daylight, even in winter, helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin levels, which are linked to improved mood.
We are passionate about getting parents outside, moving in the fresh air without having to worry about bub being cold. Making it as easy as possible for you without having to worry about layers, jackets or blankets that they kick off.
Our best-selling Nordic Footmuff Pram Liners are here to keep your little one warm while enjoying all the benefits of being outside in winter, for both you and your bub 💛
Have you got your bub a Nordic Footmuff Pram Liner yet?
