Outdoor Activities in the Okanagan Can Support Your Mental Health-Thoughts on This Important Topic

Penticton, Summerland, Oliver, Osoyoos, and other Okanagan areas are home to some of the most beautiful and unique natural landscapes in British Columbia. Desert terrain, lake life, beaches, vineyards, orchards, mountains, winter and summer festivals and activities, Skaha Bluffs, and hiking and biking trails, such as the KVR, are examples of what is waiting to be discovered and explored.

At One Journey Clinical Counselling, we have both researched and witnessed the benefits of

spending time in nature, and how this can complement therapeutic processes.

Time spent in the outdoors can...

1Reduce stress: Cortisol levels normally increase in times of stress. Spending time in nature has been shown to decrease cortisol levels.

2Improve mood: Natural settings often promote positive emotions, reducing anxiety and depression.

3Promote physical activity: Research highlights the link between improved mental health and physical activity. There are a wide range of physical activities available in the outdoors, which can make physical movement more enjoyable. There are many options for movement in the Okanagan outdoors, including hiking/leisurely scenic walks, swimming, biking, paddleboarding, alpine and cross country skiing, snow shoeing, volleyball, basketball, baseball, soccer, pickleball, yoga (group classes are even available in a vineyard), sand castle building (this counts!), and......

4Enhance cognitive functioning: Attention can become fatigued throughout the day. Time in the outdoors can increase concentration, focus, creativity, problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility.

5Improve sleep quality: Exposure to natural light and fresh air can improve sleep processes, which is extremely important for mental health.

6Increase self-regulation skills: Being in nature helps us feel calmer and less irritable, which helps decrease impulsivity.

7Social connections: Nature tends to increase generosity, cooperation, and sense of belonging.

Research reveals that even a few minutes in nature can reduce anxiety and stress, improve mood, and bolster attention and focus. Two hours a week in the outdoors is linked to improved overall health and well-being. The ideal time frame in the outdoors for the reduction of cortisol is 20 minutes.

Overall, I want to highlight that any amount of time in the outdoors is a step towards improved wellness.

Along with this note, choose an activity and location that satisfies your soul.

--Melanie