When Mom told you to turn off the TV and go play outdoors, she knew what she was talking about. 

Hanging outside is good for our mental and physical well-being. Having an outdoor retreat also adds value to your property: Upwards of 80 percent of homebuyers say patios and front porches are “essential” or “desirable,” according to the “What Buyers Really Want” survey from the National Association of Home Builders.

So why do we hardly ever use our decks, porches and patios?

An anthropological UCLA study, described in the book “Life at Home in the Twenty-First Century,” blames our fascination with digital devices — tablets, computers, televisions, games — for keeping us cooped up. The UCLA research participants spent less than half an hour each week in their outdoor space.

So why not try to pay more than lip service to outdoor living so we can be happier, create lasting memories, and generally take advantage of what home has to offer.

To begin, go overboard on comfy.

Make sure your outdoor seating is as comfortable as your indoor furniture. Splurge on some soft cushions for the patio furniture. Most are weather resistant---and we really don’t need to worry about rain! Lay down outdoor rugs so you’re just as comfortable barefoot as you are inside.

To keep everyone in the family happy, create a broadband paradise. Our devices and electronics have conspired to keep us on lock down, and since we’re unlikely to give up our digital toys, boot up your outdoor space so you can still keep texting, posting to Instagram, and watching cat videos. Wireless outdoor Wi-Fi antennas provide an extra boost so you can stay connected, and wireless speakers make it easy to bring your music outdoors.

Blur the line

between indoors and out by creating a seamless transition between your home’s interior and exterior. The easiest way is to replace a standard door opening with sliding or glass French doors. Use the same color theme on the patio as in the room leading to your backyard.

Light up the night.

Outdoor lighting dresses up your home’s marketability and appeal, makes it safer, and lets you spend more time outside. Use up lighting to highlight trees, architectural details, or other focal points. Add sconces or pendant lights to make evening entertaining, grilling, and reading easier. Illuminate walkways, rails, and steps with landscape solar lights. Hang fairy or string lights to set an enchanting tone.

Create a back yard oasis that reflects your personal style and start living it up outside.

Adriana Donofrio Podley Properties Glendora 626 914-2904 adrianad@podley.com