Is dirt really a dirty word, or could it be something more—something surprisingly beneficial? As a mom who works with young children, my tolerance for dirt is high. But recent research suggests that dirt doesn’t have to be off-putting. Instead, it can offer significant health benefits, especially when we venture outdoors for exercise.

The pandemic reshaped our approach to fitness, with gym closures prompting a shift to outdoor workouts. Many people, however, remain reluctant to embrace the messiness of exercising in natural environments, opting instead for sanitized, climate-controlled gyms. But evidence suggests that the benefits of outdoor workouts extend beyond physical fitness, offering mental and emotional advantages that might just change your perspective on getting dirty.

Engaging in a workout in the great outdoors can be invigorating and enjoyable. For instance, I recall my daughter’s high school field hockey match against their archrivals. The field, soaked from days of rain, became a muddy battleground. Initially, the conditions slowed the game, but once a player took a muddy spill, the team’s attitude shifted. The messiness led to a more aggressive and liberated style of play, culminating in a victory. The physical and mental release from getting dirty helped the team overcome their rivals and seize the championship.

While adults may not have the chance to dive into muddy fields, exposure to dirt can still be beneficial. Our modern, sanitized lifestyles have distanced us from the natural elements our ancestors regularly encountered. Reconnecting with these elements, particularly dirt, can be surprisingly advantageous.

Research has demonstrated that exposure to dirt can boost immune function. According to Jack Gilbert, author of Dirt is Good: The Advantage of Germs in Your Child’s Development, children who play in the dirt develop stronger immune systems due to the beneficial microbes they encounter. These microbes contribute to a robust gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health.

But the benefits of dirt extend to our mental well-being as well. Soil contains Mycobacterium vaccae, a bacterium with notable properties. Studies have shown that this bacterium can enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function. In 2004, researchers found that patients injected with M. vaccae experienced improved quality of life, including reduced depression and enhanced mental clarity, even though the treatment did not impact cancer outcomes. Further research in 2007 revealed that M. vaccae might influence stress responses by increasing serotonin levels, which helps regulate anxiety and stimulates the immune system.

Additionally, M. vaccae has been linked to improved cognitive function. In one study, mice fed M. vaccae showed better performance in mazes compared to their counterparts, suggesting that this bacterium can enhance memory and focus.

Outdoor workouts not only offer the benefits of increased Vitamin D from sunlight and reduced stress from nature exposure, but they also introduce us to M. vaccae, which may enhance mood and mental acuity. So, the next time you’re considering a workout, think about the benefits of embracing the dirt. It’s not just about the physical exercise; it’s about the potential mental and emotional gains as well. And if the thought of muddy clothes is a deterrent, perhaps a bottle of laundry detergent might make the transition a bit easier.