Exploring the great outdoors
Adalina Kohr, a rising second-year student in the College of Pharmacy, contributed the following article as one of the educational initiatives sponsored by the NEOMED’s Student Wellness Committee as part of their peer-support series on the eight dimensions of wellness. The eight dimensions that this student and staff committee supports include: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual wellness. The concept of eight dimensions of wellness comes from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a U.S. government agency.
With summer weather approaching, outdoor activities are coming into the spotlight. What better way is there than to improve not only your mental health but also physical health than going outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and get some exercise?
How might you do this? How can you find places to go? Many struggle with finding new places to explore and places to hike. You would think we do not have much hiking and amazing places to explore in our area, though this is false! I want to help by sharing one way I find new places to hike and explore!
There are many activities I enjoy doing outdoors, hiking being one of them. I believe that hiking is wonderful for your mind, body and soul. Not only do you get exercise, but you get to enjoy the beauty of nature and you never know what you’re going to find! To help me do this, I use an app called “AllTrails.”
I never heard of this app until my wonderful partner showed it to me and we have been using it ever since. This app allows you to find hiking trails near your location, no matter where you are. When you arrive to the trail you chose, you can start the app. Then it will map a route for you, give you stats such as elevation, time and distance, and log your hike to keep a history of what trails you have done. You can even rate and comment on the trails to share with others! Another awesome part of the app is that you can find hikes based off difficulty, so there is something for everybody.
I truly encourage everyone to go out and find a new place to explore. I am a huge advocate for outdoor activities. I believe that being one with nature is beautiful and can be uplifting. When out in nature your mind drifts into a feeling of happiness, and you will feel a weight come off your shoulders as you get to forget about any stresses that may be in your life.
Take a friend, significant other or family member with you, enjoy nature and don’t forget to bring water!
I wish everyone a wonderful summer!