Mental & Physical Wellbeing

The psychological impact of spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature accrues substantial benefits and is associated with greater psychological well-being, a deeper connection to self and loved ones, and reduced stress. (Alcock, et al., 2019). Physical health benefits include the management of health impairments or disability, improved musculoskeletal strength and endurance, improved functional capacity, and a boost of confidence which positively leads to improved long-term health (Cerin, et al., 2022).

Camper's Statements

• "Positive mental health quality."

• "Feel very self-resilient."

• "Generally its relaxing with reduced stress levels and the physical benefits that come with that."

• "Hiking during camping trips improves my overall physical health."

• "My mind slows down and I can think clearer."

• "I feel camping is physically, mentally, and emotionally beneficial to my health because the world is more balanced than the city."

The removal of the artificial world, routine, and distractions gives a sense of simplicity and peace. Nature is a sensory-rich environment that provides a space to disconnect, relax, and be present in the moment. The healing effects of nature allow people to recharge, decompress, and feel refreshed. Due to the limited amount of distractions and responsibilities, people are encouraged to use the creative side of their brain, create new memories, and reflect on nostalgic feelings.

Removal From Technology

Camper's Statements

• “The noise of the world is turned off and forces you to make life simple.”

• “It takes you out of the artificial world and no technology.”

• “Disconnect from electronics, fast-paced work, and life.”

Sense of Connection

Camping and outdoor activities provide a grounding environment to feel connected with oneself, loved ones, and the surroundings. Outdoor activities provide a pure human connection to nature that helps clear the mind and connect deeper to oneself and loved ones (Cerin, et al., 2022). Engagement in camping with friends and loved ones brings a joyful activity to bond over in a rich natural environment that eliminates distraction.

Camper's Statements

• "Its the best way to connect with nature. You're more in the elements than any other thing you do in life."

• "It makes me feel connected to the simplicity of nature."

• "Its a way of being connected and being present."

• "Creates real human connection and sort of a real connection to the earth."

• "Reconnecting with others through shared experiences and cooperation."

• "Sense of connection deeply within yourself."

• "Focused family time and togetherness.. on a deeper level."

New Adventures Await

Camping provides an opportunity to travel and see niche places around the world! Participation in outdoor "adventure" activities was associated with higher mean levels of communication, sense of purpose, self-resilience, and leadership when compared to those who do not engage in outdoor activities (Les, E. et al., 2023). When camping, you get to stay in unique places immersed in the core beauty of nature.

Camper's Statements

• “Experience a new life adventure.”

• “Its fun to explore different places.”

• “Our lives and problems are put in better perspective"

Sensory Exploration

The camping experience allows individuals to be physically immersed in the natural environment and allows interaction with nature on a direct level by temporarily living in a dynamic natural ecosystem (Hassell et al., 2015). Natural environments are rich in diverse visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive stimuli and has been proven proven to reduce stress, improve attentional function, and improve overall health (Li, D. et al., 2022).

Camper's Statements

• “Feeling the cold air on my face”

• “Sit down, close my eyes, and smell the fresh woody air.”

• “Peaceful hearing the wind blow through the trees and looking at the stars.”