Article,
Trail to Tranquility
Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits of Outdoor Trails for Mental Wellbeing
Hiking, often revered for its physical benefits, unveils an equally impactful journey for mental resilience, particularly in the context of cancer recovery. Outdoor trails, far more than mere paths through nature, serve as therapeutic avenues fostering profound mental wellbeing among participants. (1)
The Healing Power of Hiking
Beyond the crunch of leaves and the rhythm of footsteps, hiking offers a unique fusion of physical exertion and mental rejuvenation. Studies (2) reveal that engaging with nature through hiking stimulates the release of endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety—common challenges faced by those navigating the complexities of cancer recovery.
Connecting with Nature for Mental Resilience
Outdoor trails provide a serene canvas for individuals to reconnect with nature, cultivating mental resilience. Amidst the rustling leaves and the gentle sway of trees, hikers often discover a space where the mind can recalibrate, finding solace and strength amid the challenges posed by cancer. (3)
Mindful Steps: Hiking and Mental Wellbeing
Hiking promotes mindfulness—an anchor to the present moment. The rhythmic cadence of each step and the unfolding scenery create an immersive experience, allowing participants to momentarily detach from the burdens of the past and uncertainties of the future. This mindfulness, cultivated on the trail, becomes a valuable tool for mental wellbeing. (4)
Nature's Therapeutic Dialogue
The symbiotic relationship between outdoor trails and mental resilience lies in the therapeutic dialogue they share. Nature, with its vast landscapes and changing vistas, provides a backdrop for introspection and self-discovery. (5) Hiking becomes a medium through which individuals can process emotions, confront fears, and ultimately embark on a transformative journey towards mental wellbeing.
Community and Connection on the Trail
Hiking often takes place in a communal setting, fostering connections that contribute significantly to mental resilience. The shared experience of overcoming physical challenges on the trail translates into a support system where individuals feel understood, valued, and less isolated in their journey through cancer recovery. (6)
Conclusion: Embracing the Therapeutic Essence of Hiking
In the midst of the natural symphony of the outdoors, hiking emerges as a powerful therapeutic activity, offering more than physical exercise. It becomes a journey towards mental resilience, a pathway to tranquility, and an integral part of the holistic approach to cancer recovery. As young cancer survivors navigate the trails, they not only enhance their physical strength but also fortify their minds finding solace, strength, and renewal in the embrace of nature.
Author: Sara Vivirito – CEIPES
Sources
- Harmon, J. (2018). Celebrate the Trail to Recovery: Power of the positive post-diagnosis of cancer. International Journal of the Sociology of Leisure, 1, 215-226.
- Harmon, J. (2019). Tell cancer to take a hike: post traumatic growth on the trail to recovery. Leisure/Loisir, 43(4), 459-478
- Harmon, J., & Kyle, G. (2022). Connecting to the trail: Natural spaces as places of healing. Leisure Sciences, 44(8), 1112-1127
- Wolsko, C., Lindberg, K., & Reese, R. (2019). Nature-based physical recreation leads to psychological well-being: Evidence from five studies. Ecopsychology, 11(4), 222-235.
- Park, E. Y., An, M. Y., & Sung, J. H. (2022). A present from the forest: Focus group interviews on cancer survivors’ forest experiences. Asia-Pacific Journal of Oncology Nursing, 9(8), 100105.
- Lesser, I. A., Prystupa, J., Belanger, L., Thomson, C., & Nienhuis, C. P. (2020). A mixed-methods evaluation of a group based trail walking program to reduce anxiety in cancer survivors. Applied Cancer Research, 40(1), 1-10.
