5 Incredible Heath Benefits of Camping
The Perfect Escape
With everything that happened in 2020 and so far in 2021, you may be thinking a camping trip sounds like the perfect escape. Camping is more than just an escape, though. In fact, it may be just what the doctor ordered! Not only does it allow for social distancing and get you outdoors, but camping has also been linked to numerous health benefits. Keep reading to learn more!
Health Benefits of Camping
Exercise
Regardless of what kind of camping you plan on doing, whether it’s RVing, car camping or backpacking, you will be getting more exercise than you would be staying home. Packing, unpacking, setting up camp, exploring and all the activities that come with camping, such as hiking, canoeing, etc., require physical activity. The truth is, when you are in nature, exercise comes more naturally and is generally more fun. Not to mention, physical activity is essential for overall wellbeing.
Stress Relief
In our modern technology-filled world, it is a challenge to step away from all of the screens. This is especially true now that many of us are working from home. On top of that, the news and almost all social media channels are filled with negativity. Going camping is one of the best ways to disconnect and take a break from technology. When you combine that with fresh air and natural sights, you will feel the stress melt away. Chronic, unmanaged stress can have detrimental effects on our health and lead to burnout. So, whether you choose camping or another activity, some sort of stress management is absolutely crucial.
Healthy Eating Habits
Other than a few s’mores, typical camping food is very healthy. Examples include, oatmeal, fruit, vegetables, granola, trail mix, sandwiches, fish, potatoes, etc. In addition, when you are active and spend a majority of your time outdoors, your body will naturally crave healthy and nutritious foods. While this will certainly boost your health during the camping trip, the real benefit is recognizing how much better you feel. Actively acknowledging how exercise and nutritious food benefits your body can help you create long lasting healthy habits in your everyday life.
Improved Sleep
You’ve probably noticed on days that you workout and eat healthy, you’ve slept better. The same is true when camping! When you’ve had a busy, active day and eaten regular meals and snacks, you set your body up for a restful night’s sleep. In addition to that, you aren’t on your phone, staring at a television, or sitting under artificial light all day. This allows your body to return to its natural circadian rhythm. There are a few requirements to achieve your best nights sleep while camping, though. We recommend some sort of pillow, a sleeping bag with the correct temperature rating, and of course, a GO- KOT to get you off the cold, hard ground!
Social Connection
Whether it is with family members or friends, strong social connections are essential for your health. With busy schedules and daily stressors, quality time with family and friends is limited. When camping though, you are given the opportunity to truly connect with each other and experience the benefits of quality time. Everything from setting up camp, cooking and eating meals, exploring, sharing stories, and more is done together without the distractions of technology or regular routines. When you make time for camping and nurturing relationships, you are sure to feel the health benefits!
As you can see, camping benefits all 5 of the holistic aspects of your health; physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social. To learn even more about the health benefits of camping, visit Sport Fitness Advisor, KOA, or the National Park Service!
All photos were either used from our Canva Pro account or with permission from Ethnosphere Photography.