Camping Health Benefits
According to the American Camper report, 13 out of 100 Americans over the age of 6 went camping in 2016 alone. More than 11% of them were new to this kind of outdoor activity. The same report says that the number of Americans going on camping adventures is growing with each year. This suggests the increasing awareness of people and families about the importance of camping on their health. So, how can camping be beneficial to one’s health? We’re sharing with you 10 benefits.
1. Improved Tissue Oxygenation
Camping gives you the chance to breathe in fresh, unadulterated air that’s rich in life-giving oxygen. This is the number one benefit of camping. It frees you from the heavy metal-laden air that you breathe in the city. Fresh air allows the cells and tissues of the body to function at optimum levels. This leads to healthier functioning of the different organs.
2. Reduced Stress Levels
As you breathe in fresh air, you’re increasing the levels of oxygen in the brain. This increases the production of serotonin and other mood-regulating hormones in the brain. The relaxing nature of the environment also stimulates the production of these anti-stress hormones. They make you feel more relaxed and at peace with the world around you. So, you may be tired of putting up large camping tents at the campsite, but this is not at all stressful.
3. Improved Physical Health
Carrying your camping equipment for a few miles can help strengthen the muscles. It can also improve the way your heart is able to pump blood. Camping is always considered as one of the most fun ways to exercise. Navigating through the camp trail with your hiking shoes can help improve muscle tone, cardiovascular endurance, and strength. It’s a great way to improve your physical health.
4. More Restful Sleep
Natural light sources have this uncanny ability to restore the body’s normal circadian or sleep-wake cycle. As you lie down on your camping cot at night, you’ll fall asleep a lot faster. This is because of the natural effects of natural light in the production of melatonin. Moreover, the activities you have at the campsite will help prepare your body for a more restful sleep.
5. Better Nutrition
This is quite tricky since everything depends on what you’re going to bring to the camping activity. True-blue campers rely on what Mother Nature can provide. This means they can fish in the river or lake and use whatever ingredients they can find in nature. This provides you with food that’s packed with nutrients and without the dangers of chemicals.
6. Improved Mood
Camping gets you a lot closer to nature, which relaxes the mind. The improved levels of oxygen in your brain also stimulates the increased production of feel-good hormones. This can help you feel a lot better about yourself and be in a much better mood.
7. Enhanced Social Health
There are those who prefer to go camping by themselves. In general, however, more people get to enjoy camping with their family and friends. This activity can strengthen social relationships while also securing new friendships with other campers in the area. One’s communication skills can also be enhanced because of this. Camping can also boost one’s self-confidence, allowing him or her to build more lasting relationships.
8. Reduced Symptoms Of Depression
Some people think that being away from the city can be very depressing. On the contrary, camping is a great way to alleviate symptoms of depression. The improved oxygenation of the brain can pave the way for the release of more feel-good hormones which can lift one’s spirits. The company of friends, plus the absence of stressful situations can also pave the way for a more effective means of managing depression.
9. Stronger Bones
People have this notion that the sunlight is what gives us Vitamin D. Unfortunately, you don’t get Vitamin D from the sun. This vitamin is produced by our bodies by converting certain molecules in the skin. These molecules are activated by sunlight. But the best part of it is that Vitamin D can promote the more efficient absorption of calcium for stronger bones. You’ll never have issues carrying your backpacking backpack the next time you heed Mother Nature’s call.
10. Enhanced Brain Processes
Improving the flow of blood to the brain can facilitate better brain processes, including alertness, memory, learning, and problem-solving. You will also feel more alert and in-tune with the rest of your surroundings. Many individuals who have been camping all their lives no longer need alarm clocks to wake them up because of the improvement in the overall function of the brain. When you do get back home, these changes can help you improve other aspects of your life.
Camping can provide many health benefits. Everything starts with excellent oxygenation of the different tissues of the body. All other benefits spring from here.
Sources:
- 15 Surprising Health Benefits of Camping – Well-Being Secrets
- 2017 American Camper Report – Outdoor Industry
- 9 Reasons Camping is Beneficial to Your Health – RVC Outdoor Destinations
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