How Winter Camping Helps Your Health
By Brandi Goodman
Camping is often praised as a summertime activity. Though there are many benefits to setting up a tent outdoors during warm weather, it isn't the only time you can enjoy this adventure. Winter camping is also possible -- and there's other ways it can help your health.
True Peace and Quiet
Camping in the summer is of course a great experience. You get to be out in nature, enjoying the warm weather and fresh air. However, you still may not have true peace and quiet with lots of campers in the area keeping you up. Winter camping is different. You get to fully relax and enjoy no noise. Very few people choose to camp in the winter, meaning you'll have lots of space to yourself and real quiet to bring you solace. It's great for your mental health.
Time Away From the World
The holiday season can take a lot out of a person. Sometimes getting away from the world -- whether during the holidays or directly after -- can help reduce your stress levels and give you the time alone you need. Winter camping provides pure solitude if you go alone. It can provide a great getaway for a couple as well, particularly one looking to make time for each other and get away from all of their responsibilities.
Cool, Fresh Air
Sometimes camping in the summer isn't as great for your health as you were hoping. The mosquitoes bite often. The warm air only makes you hot and sticky. It can feel miserable during particularly hot days. Winter camping provides cool, fresh air to breathe into your lungs. You may be able to burn a few extra calories as well as your body works to maintain its temperature. There's less allergens in the air and you can reduce some inflammation the heat causes.
You don't have to camp out in a tent if it's truly cold. Plenty of campgrounds rent out cabins so you can be safe, secure, and warm in a cozy space. If you do want the tent experience, be sure to get a cold weather sleeping bag and bring along a heater. You still get to enjoy all the adventure and excitement that camping offers no matter when you go. A winter camping trip can really help your health, especially mentally.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Avon, Ind.