Camping … for Health?

A camping trip may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of ways to improve your health, but perhaps it should!

• Light Therapy for Circadian Rhythm:A 2013 study from the University of Colorado Boulder examined how camping affects natural circadian rhythm. They found that participants who camped for a week noticed major improvements in sleep patterns.Sleep researcher Dr. Michael Breus explains that camping for one week (away from artificial light) resets circadian clocks. More specifically, the study found that:
• Forest Bathing Stress Relief:The Japanese have a national practice called “Forest Bathing” or shinrin-yoku. It’s been a national public health practice for them since the 1980s. The Japanese have spent millions of dollars studying the effects of this time in nature with surprising findings:
• Improved Sleep: As mentioned above, camping away from artificial light improves the circadian clock. Logically, it also improves sleep.Sure, sleeping on the ground in a thin sleeping bag doesn’t sound like the perfect way to relax. But studies show that people get deeper and more restorative sleep in nature. One factor may be that people aren’t staying up as late watching TV while camping. This alone improves sleep and increases melatonin production.
• A Breath of Fresh Air:Another tangible benefit of camping is the abundance of fresh air. Experts warn indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air. They encourage opening windows and ventilating our homes often. Spending time outdoors, especially overnight, is a great way to get fresh air’s benefits. Areas with a lot of trees have a higher oxygen concentration in the environment. This makes it easier to breathe and relax.
• Mental Health Benefits:Camping not only helps relieve stress, but it can also improve mental health. When we’re tired and our circadian rhythms aren’t working well, it takes a toll on our mental health. As a society, our frequent social media and electronic device use also have their downsides. Then there’s the stress and busyness of everyday life.Camping benefits our mental health by giving us a break from many of the stressors and distractions. You can learn new skills like foraging and making shelters. These problem-solving activities help foster creativity and nurture our brain cells. Now you just have to worry about getting that campfire started!