We only get so many vacation days a year, so it can be tough to decide how to spend them. You could relax on a beach, go on a historical tour, embrace adventure by hiking a new mountain, choose a staycation and take some courses and have time for your hobbies, among many other options. It is pretty rare that you can fit too many things into one trip, and if you do you will probably feel even more tired then while you were working, but, what if you could go explore a new place and also learn crucial skills along the way? Choosing trips for learning outdoor skills can help you feel more fulfilled and accomplished, while also helping you reset by reconnecting with yourself, others, and nature. 

Outdoor skills and mental health 

In modern times we have much easier lives in many ways, but sometimes these comforts might actually be doing more harm than good. The average person lives a very sedentary life, disconnected from our food, with little time to make and build things and/or connect with others while we do so. Through much of human history we evolved to walk long distances, search for food in various places, build and make our homes, clothing, and tools, and do so in community. Now, even though we tend to live longer thanks to science and medicine, much of that life is spent isolated working on a computer screen and not spending nearly enough time outdoors. 

Spending time outdoors has been linked to positive mental health, and working with our hands also brings a sense of accomplishment and connection. When you pair these things together, even for a short time, great things can happen! When you learn outdoor skills like how to make a fire or a shelter outside, it is much more satisfying than you might think. Additionally, just knowing what gear is essential for a worst case scenario, as well as what to do if you get lost or hurt when spending time outdoors, can give you the confidence to adventure more on your future travels!

Forming new connections  

Getting together with a small group of people, whether they are already your friends or start out as strangers, and learning new things can form special bonds that are crucial to our mental health. Working together in groups, as tough as it can be sometimes, is how we evolved and therefore is important for us. Sharing tales around the fire, celebrating victories together when you started your fire properly, and sharing meals makes for a special kind of connection. Even if you don’t see these people again for a long time, that sense of community and connectedness with others stays with you. 

Exploring new places 

Now of course, when you travel you also want to see new things, learn about new cultures, and experience something different – this is also a big part of any good survival/outdoors camp. Going to a new place and spending time outdoors and learning from locals, will give you a whole new perspective on travel. In fact, it might be hard to ever go on a “normal” trip again. Whether you try a winter camp in Sweden or a trip to the jungle to learn from locals, you will take a piece of that place with you, always. 

Final thoughts

However you decide to spend your vacation time is up to you, but taking a trip that also allows you to learn new things can do wonders for your mental health, and be a lot of fun! Learning survival skills gives a great sense of satisfaction and boosts confidence, while spending time outdoors and with others can boost your mental health and form new connections and community. So, next time you are deciding on a trip, consider an outdoor skills camp too!

Comments (0 Comments)