Explore nature with no-cost activities through Centred Outdoors this summer
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recent biennial Youth Risk Behavior Survey suggests youth mental health continues to decline nationally, and Mount Nittany Health’s 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment suggests the same for our own community. Parents, mental health practitioners and community leaders are working to identify ways to improve child and teen well-being and reverse this trend. Fortunately, some solutions for improving mental health are fun, cost-free and accessible for the whole family.
Mount Nittany Health can help you get started. We’ve partnered with Clearwater Conservancy, the Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and the Hamer Foundation to offer “Centred Outdoors,” a guided hiking program that explores 20 natural areas in our community between May and September.
Have you ever wanted to check out Canoe Creek State Park, Soaring Eagle Wetland or Poe Paddy, but weren’t quite sure where to go or how to get started? Now, you can simply join a Centred Outdoors guided hike. Simply show up a few minutes early wearing comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle. Some of the events even offer transportation and equipment if you need it.
Not only is hiking enjoyable, but it also has a positive effect on physical and mental well-being. Physical activity, exploration and exposure to natural green spaces and sunlight improve mental health and help to build resilience in kids, a quality that helps them overcome life’s daily challenges.
Why is physical activity important?
Our kids live a life with screens, whether for education or entertainment, but we need to remember that children and teens are recommended to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Physical activity is crucial to developing and strengthening bones and muscles, regulating blood sugar levels, and maintaining heart and lung health. Exercise is also important for brain health. It has been shown to lower the risk of depression for young people, as well as reduce stress, boost self-esteem and concentration, and improve sleep. Hiking and nature walks are a really great way to help kids (and adults) meet their movement needs both for physical and mental health.
What is Resilience?
Resilience is the ability to overcome and adapt to significant hardship, and it can be cultivated. Setting and accomplishing goals, mastering skills and finding purpose are all important components of resilience-building.
How can hiking boost physical and mental health?
Hiking helps to build resilience, among other useful qualities. Being out on the trail requires physical and mental endurance, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Hiking can also foster awe and appreciation for the natural world, leading to increased feelings of gratitude and a sense of purpose. In addition, learning new skills and overcoming challenges can boost self-esteem and confidence.
Hiking allows youth to get outside and explore their natural surroundings. Exposure to natural sunlight regulates children’s body clocks (also called their circadian rhythm). This helps to make them feel alert and awake during the day and sleepy at night, leading to improved sleep and mental well-being. Getting “green time” in nature also has been associated with reduced anger and stress and increases in attention, mindfulness and happiness.
Connecting with others through group hiking opportunities – like those offered through Centred Outdoors – has added mental health benefits. High levels of loneliness have been linked to several poor physical and mental health outcomes, including high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and substance use problems. In contrast, meaningful socialization and the development of a social support network are related to reduced stress and depression, as well as increased resilience.
Getting started with hiking has never been easier. Centred Outdoors offers a variety of guided hikes suitable for all skill levels at beautiful locations throughout our region. These hikes are a great way to meet your neighbors and get comfortable with shorter hikes in a group setting.
Getting Started
When you sign up for the Centred Outdoors Adventure Guide online, you’ll receive news, information, safety tips, driving directions and additional resources. Sign up at CentredOutdoors.org.