Going on an adventure into the unknown and actually experiencing the world has a distinct quality. A student's physical, mental, and emotional health can improve through an active school trip, whether it's a hike through the mountains or cycling through rural back roads.
Our community is evolving, though. The news stories regarding our escalating sedentary lifestyle are supported by the rising need for more comfortable travel. The majority of these publications focus on today's youth, which is especially concerning. Children's time spent outside appears to be rapidly decreasing due to rising childhood obesity rates, despair, an addiction to an electronic umbilical cord that continuously sends out commercials touting the virtues of manufactured meals, and even more computer time.
With all of the developments in modern living brought about by an expanded urban lifestyle, we are concerned that the next generation will be taught that nature is not our friend and provides little benefit.
While there are many different sorts of educational travel experiences available for children, here is a list of few advantages of including active travel components into your school trip is a good idea.
“What we learn with pleasure we never forget.”Alfred Mercier
Spending time outside relieves stress.
The demands of student life can be overwhelming, and spending time outdoors can provide a much-needed break. Whether taking a walk in the park, going for a bike ride, or participating in a yoga class, outdoor recreational activities can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
For students feeling burnt out or overwhelmed, taking a break to spend time in nature can be a great way to recharge and refocus. These kinds of activities can help clear the mind and provide renewed energy and motivation.
Overall, there are many benefits to incorporating outdoor activities into a student’s routine. Whether for physical health, mental health, social connections, or stress relief, spending time in nature can help improve overall well-being and academic success.
Nature facilitates exercising.
Some children struggle to motivate themselves to exercise. So make it enjoyable for them and give them a goal to strive for.
According to research conducted at the University of Essex, observing the color green, such as on trees, grass, and other plants in nature, makes exercise feel simpler.
The cyclists in the study pedaled in front of green, red, and grey graphics. Those who cycled in front of the green screen reported feeling less exerted and experiencing fewer mood disruptions than the other participants.
Nature can rejuvenates your soul
One of the best reasons to spend time outdoors trekking and cycling is that it can reinvigorate your mental state. Studies have shown that viewing natural beauty can elicit feelings of awe, which can release endorphins and trigger a mental boost.
An interview by HuffingtonPost with a Seattle-based environmental psychologist states: 'In addition to helping decrease stress levels, spending more time with nature shows a shift toward more positive moods... the theory is that we respond positively to things that are good for us. Trees offer shade, protection and often have fruits and nuts, so they are a source of food as well as protection and comfort.'
Ultimately, we tend to be drawn and attracted to things that are beneficial to our survival, which is one of the reasons why trees and other natural elements can help lift our moods.
Gain a sense of accomplishment
Regardless of age and size, taking on an overseas adventure can create feelings associated with personal achievement. The greater the challenge, the more sense of achievement we feel when we accomplish those goals.
Travel heightens self-awareness
Traveling increases self-awareness, which is one of the most advantageous aspects of going on an adventurous school trip overseas.
Adventure travel brings you closer to your "inner self," allowing you to analyze and push yourself in ways you never thought imaginable.
Stepping into the unknown and taking a risk requires our whole focus and can result in an acute level of self awareness, which is one of the reasons why individuals engage in adventure sports such as mountain climbing.
Forge new friendships
After an adventure it's not uncommon to see bonds form between students who prior to the trip perhaps weren't as close. The common goals shared of achieving a physical challenge can bring kids together.
Embarking on a challenge with other people can bring them closer together; sharing the trials and the triumphs gives them something to bond over and forms relationships that'll embed deep in their memories for many years to come.
Learn new life skills
Travel develops a child in any ways. From problem solving to growing confidence and building, resilience, the experiences gained from entering new surroundings and immersing yourself in a different culture creates exciting challenges that can enable students to expand their skill set.
Taking part in a Service Learning Project only enhances the opportunity to grow as you work alongside local people to achieve a common goal for the benefit of both the host communities and visiting students.
Know that you're making a difference when you travel ethically
There’s more to travel than just experiencing nature’s finest spaces. Embarking on a trip to some of the world’s most remote and untouched corners puts money into the local economy and helps preserve these pristine landscapes.
As many of these far-flung destinations are located in some of the world’s poorest countries, eco tourism helps these countries in their efforts to save and preserve their land through organisations that ultimately aim to save the planet.
Physical health advantages
Studies have shown that spending time outside can improve physical health. Activities like hiking, running, and biking can help build endurance, increase strength, and improve cardiovascular health. Exposure to natural light can also provide the body with vitamin D, which helps strengthen bones and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
For college students who spend a lot of time sitting in classes or studying, these activities can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Even a short walk around campus can help boost energy levels and improve overall health.
Mental health benefits
Spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental health. It can reduce stress, depression, and anxiety and increase happiness and well-being. Being immersed in green spaces can help to provide a sense of calm and relaxation and help to clear the mind from the pressures of academic work.
For students struggling with mental health issues, spending time outdoors can be a valuable tool for self-care. Whether taking a solo hike or participating in a group activity, being in nature can help promote a sense of peace and tranquility.
Social connections and networking
Outdoor recreational activities can also provide opportunities for social connections and networking. Group activities like team sports or hiking clubs can help build friendships and create a sense of community. This can be especially beneficial for students who may be new to an area and looking for ways to connect with others.
Participating in outdoor activities can also help develop important leadership and teamwork skills, which can be useful in academic and professional settings.
Social connections and networking
The demands of student life can be overwhelming, and spending time outdoors can provide a much-needed break. Whether taking a walk in the park, going for a bike ride, or participating in a yoga class, outdoor recreational activities can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
For students feeling burnt out or overwhelmed, taking a break to spend time in nature can be a great way to recharge and refocus. These kinds of activities can help clear the mind and provide renewed energy and motivation.
Overall, there are many benefits to incorporating outdoor activities into a student’s routine. Whether for physical health, mental health, social connections, or stress relief, spending time in nature can help improve overall well-being and academic success.