Haylee Spiller | October 17, 2023

Camping & Well Being: Exploring the Benefits of Getting Outdoors

Turn your weekends into #selfcaregetaways

Camping has long been recognized as a beloved pastime for outdoor enthusiasts. But did you know that camping isn’t just about roasting marshmallows and telling ghost stories around the campfire? Beyond the obvious joys of nature and adventure, there is a wealth of scientific evidence supporting the profound impact it can have on our physical and mental well-being. In this blog, we delve into the concrete benefits of spending time outdoors, shedding light on how it can significantly improve your quality of life.

1. Unplug - Mental Break

In today’s world of screens, screens, and more screens, it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a digital vortex. According to recent statistics, the average American adult spends almost as much time in front of screens as we spend sleeping, despite experts recommending less than 2 hours of screen time per day. Yikes! 📱💤

Research on Screen-Time and Green-Time  has shown that excessive screen time is associated with decreased cognitive function and impaired attention span, which leaves us feeling scatterbrained and unfocused. But fear not, fellow adventurers, because when you camp, you get to pull the ultimate power move – you unplug.

When we dive headfirst into nature’s embrace, we’re essentially treating our brains to a spa day, letting them unwind, refresh, and revitalize. So, next time you go camping say goodbye to screen-induced brain fog and hello to a mental break that’s as refreshing as a dip in a crystal-clear mountain stream. 🌲🧠

2. Mood Boost

Ever wonder why you feel so darn happy when you’re out in nature? Well, science has the answer! It turns out that Mother Nature herself is a mood-boosting magician. 🌿🎩

Studies  show that just 20-30 minutes in nature can kick cortisol (that’s the stress hormone) to the curb. And guess what? Outdoor adventures get those endorphins (the happy chemicals) pumping!  When outdoors, physical activity tends to be more organic and integrated into our experiences, resulting in increased levels of endorphins, thereby naturally boosting our mood. The calmness of natural surroundings and the rhythmic sounds of nature contribute to a sense of peace and tranquility, providing a much-needed break from the stresses of modern life.

So, next time you’re feeling a bit “meh,” consider a dose of fresh air and sunshine for an instant mood makeover. Better yet, grab your  truck  or  SUV tent  and head out for a weekend in the forest. You’ll thank yourself later!

3. Air Quality

Take a deep breath. Feels good, right? That’s because when you’re out in the wild, you’re breathing in air that’s cleaner than a freshly washed hiking boot. 🌬️👟

Since we breathe all day everyday, one of the often-overlooked benefits of camping is the opportunity to breathe in high-quality, fresh air. In urban environments, we are constantly exposed to pollutants and stagnant, contaminated air. Taking a break from this routine and immersing ourselves in nature allows us to enjoy clean, oxygen-rich air, revitalizing our lungs and invigorating our senses.

4. Improved Sleep

Picture this: You’re cozied up in your Napier tent, snuggled in your sleeping bag, and the cool night air is lulling you into a deep, restorative slumber. 😴🌙

The cool temps help you dive into a dreamy sleep, and the natural sunlight during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythms, reinforcing your body’s internal sleep-wake cycle. Quality sleep is fundamental to our overall health and well-being and camping offers a unique opportunity to optimize our sleep patterns.

Research  has shown that individuals who spend time outdoors during the day tend to experience more consistent and restful sleep, which can lead to improved cognitive function, mood stability, and enhanced overall health.

So, say goodbye to tossing and turning and hello to dreamland!

5. Immunity Benefits

Big city living can feel like an endless battle against chemicals, artificial lights, and a sea of germs. These factors can take a toll on our immune system, leaving us susceptible to illness.

But when you escape to the great outdoors, you give your immune system a super boost by allowing it to function optimally.  Studies  suggest that time in nature revs up your number of NK cells, which have been reported as tumor and virus-infected-cell killers. Essentially, spending time outdoors makes you a germ-fighting machine!

5. Increased Motivation & Belonging

When you put all these benefits together – the unplugging, the mood boost, the fresh air, the better sleep, and the supercharged immune system – you’re left with one thing: motivation to conquer life! 💪🏞️

Plus, there’s that undeniable feeling of belonging to something bigger when you’re surrounded by nature’s wonders. You’re not just a camper; you’re a part of the great outdoors community. Embrace it, and let it fuel your zest for a better, healthier life!

So, pack your bags, fuel up your truck or SUV, unfold your Napier tent, and dive headfirst into the wild world of camping. Science has your back, and so do we! Get out there, have a blast, and let the proven benefits of camping supercharge your body and soul. Roam, camp, conquer!

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