The Surprising Benefits of Birding—an Easy Hobby That Boosts Your Mind, Brain, and Body

Birding is one of the most inclusive and accessible outdoor hobbies there is. It welcomes people of all ages, abilities, and requires no prior experience—just curiosity, patience, and the appreciation of the natural world. Whether you go birding from your window, stroll through your local park, or explore a forest trail, birding can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle as a hobby.

Aside from being an accessible hobby, birding provides many health benefits for both the brain and body. From promoting an active lifestyle to supporting mental health, birding offers an opportunity to connect with the natural world and build community with others who enjoy the hobby. To learn more about the health benefits of birding, we spoke to birding guide Tod Winston and psychotherapist Emily Davenport.

Easy Way to Enjoy the Outdoors

Birding is one of the most accessible outdoor activities there is—and sometimes, you don't even have to leave the house to do it. It's suitable for all ages and levels of experience. You can bird solo, socially, casually, or seriously—there really are no strict rules when it comes to this healthy hobby. "It requires minimal equipment—just curiosity and a bit of patience—and can be done anywhere, from your backyard to a local park or even through a window," says Emily Davenport, licensed art therapist and psychotherapist at Davenport Creative Arts Therapy, PLLC.

Promotes Physical Activity

If you're looking for a low-impact activity, birding could be just what you need. Birding outdoors involves physical activity such as walking, standing, scanning, and sometimes even hiking. It promotes movement and helps with balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.

Birders who spend extended time outdoors benefit from exposure to fresh air, sunlight, and vitamin D, all of which play an important role in supporting the immune system and regulating sleep, says Davenport. "But even a short bird outing is a healthy time spent being active. I am constantly impressed by the endurance of older birders, and I believe that their birding gives them a continuous gift of exercise and good health," says Winston.

Supports Cognitive and Mental Health

Spending time outdoors is great for our cognitive and mental health. "Studies have shown that spending time in nature, especially while engaging in focused activities like birding, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), enhances mood, and can even improve attention span and cognitive flexibility," says Davenport.

The more you bird, the more you learn and continue to stimulate your brain. Learning about new birds and being able to identify them and their unique behaviors keeps the brain active and helps boost memory.

Hobbies like birding also provide an emotional escape from the daily stressors and foster a sense of mental clarity. "For me personally, birding has always provided a happy and peaceful escape. It is my time, spent at my own pace, when I'm totally focused outside myself, taking in the beauty of nature," shares Winston.

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Builds Social Connection and Community

No matter your age or stage in life, having a community and socializing are essential for well-being. "These social interactions can combat loneliness, create a sense of belonging, and provide opportunities for learning and mentorship—all of which are protective factors for mental and physical health," explains Davenport.

As birders, sharing new sightings, celebrating rare finds, and simply enjoying nature with others reinforces the human connections we need, says Davenport. "I've seen from the Beginning Birding course I teach that the opportunity to learn and experience something new together is often a big part of what brings people joy while birding," shares Winston.