After having spent all week stressing out over what to pack, when to pack, and the best time to leave to beat traffic, we finally made it! This is the story of every healthy camping trip I’ve ever taken (which is a lot).
Co-workers are always laughing at me, because they don’t get why I keep camping. I’ll spend months looking forward to a camping trip, but the week of the week of the trip, my world falls apart. I become convinced we’ll never have time to pack everything we need, or that we don’t have the space. I’ll be positive that the truck just can’t make the trip, and we’ll have to turn back to come home.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in tune once more.”
John Burroughs
So, Why Keep Doing It?
People ask why I keep camping when it stresses me out so much. Sure, preparing and making sure I have everything I need to keep my little family comfortable for the weekend can be stressful. Especially while trying to fit it all around a busy schedule. But, in the whole scheme of things, that one week, or couple days of stress is worth it.
Spending time in the Great Outdoors is rejuvenating.
Fresh Air is Good for Your Health
Livestrong explains how fresh air and sunlight can improve your health in a number of ways.
Spending some time outdoors can improve your energy levels, reduce stress and depression, and even improve your quality of sleep!
Healthy Camping: You’re Forced to “Unplug”
This one depends on where you choose to camp.
We spend a few weekends every year in areas remote enough that we lose cell service. And personally, I enjoy having a couple days to escape the rings and dings and screen of my phone.
That tiny escape in and of itself can be enough to de-stress me.
You’ll Form New Bonds with the Other Campers
There’s just something about sitting by a campfire with someone that helps you to know them on a deeper level.
Existing family relationships and friendships of mine have been strengthened around a campfire, and I’ve even made some new friends there!
Healthy Camping: You’ll Naturally Get More Exercise
Whether your shelter of choice is an RV or a tent, there’s usually a lot of setup involved that you wouldn’t have to do if you stayed in a hotel. The simple act of setting up your camp area has the potential to get you more exercise than you usually would.
On top of that, campgrounds are usually located near some great hiking trails!
I’m a huge fan of hiking for a really great workout at any fitness level.
But You’ll Get More Rest, Too
Best of all, I truly can’t think of anything more relaxing than lounging next to a good fire in the sunshine, surrounded by the people I love and reading a great book.
I find that it is way easier for me to relax when I’m camping (or away from home in general). When I can escape the day-to-day chores and the temptation to just finish up “one more thing,” I can immerse myself in the nature around me and get the rest I really need from my busy life.
Totally Worth It!
I love my camping weekends. A weekend spent camping is refreshing for the mind, body and soul. It’s great to get outside, but it’s also important to be sure you have opportunities every so often to bond with your family & friends, move your body, rest your mind and unplug from the rest of the world.
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