Austin Alexander Burridge Explains the Health Benefits of Camping

Camping has much more to offer than just beautiful scenery and fresh air. In fact, staying outdoors for a day or two can provide significant mental health benefits. Austin Alexander Burridge, a camping and outdoor enthusiast, explains below how camping can improve your overall mental well-being.

Stress Relief

It should come as no surprise that long-term stress can lead to several severe health conditions. Camping allows you to break from your routine and the pressures that go along with it. A revitalized perspective is possible to achieve by creating space between yourself and stressors within your life. With the promise of crisp, fresh air and lush natural surroundings, camping is a perfect way to accomplish just that.

Get Away From Devices

Being overly dependent on devices can lead to depression, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. Camping is the perfect excuse to create distance from your devices and get into a more natural rhythm. Even as cell tower reception improves in rural areas, challenge yourself not to use your cell phone, tablet or computer during your next camping trip. While you may feel device withdrawal at first, in the end, you'll find yourself feeling more relaxed and less anxious as a result.

Getting More Exercise

Let’s be honest; we could all use a little more exercise. Camping naturally encourages physical activity, as you'll be hiking, exploring, gathering firewood and walking to water sources. Exercise is a proven way to relieve stress, and thanks to the release of serotonin, it provides a sense of accomplishment. Even the short amount of time it takes to set up camp will leave you feeling healthier.

Clearer Thinking

If you've been struggling with some big questions or need to free up some mental space, camping will undoubtedly help with that process. Studies have shown that being outdoors is an effective way to promote positive thinking. This is important, as eliminating negative thinking is critical to making sound decisions on serious topics.

By getting away from devices, naturally relieving stress, promoting clear thinking and encouraging exercise, camping helps you unwind while also preparing your return to everyday life. However, these are just a few of the benefits camping offers. So, gear up and invest in your mental health with a thrilling camping adventure!

About: Austin Alexander Burridge is an avid academic who studies Environmental Science at Winona State University in Minnesota. He has consistently been on the Dean’s list since 2017 and is a recipient of the Winona State University President Honor Scholarship. In addition to his educational excellence, Austin Burridge is a PADI-certified scuba diver who enjoys traveling and being an advocate for the environment.