Research has found that caravan and camping trips can be beneficial for health and wellbeing.
The Real Richness Report, commissioned by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, found that campers are competitively happier, more satisfied, optimistic and energised than non-campers.
Not only do trips make campers happier, they also give people an opportunity to connect with themselves and their feelings, with 53 per cent of women and 44 per cent of men strongly agreeing that camping trips enabled them to gather their thoughts.
Respondents’ answers also revealed 96 per cent of campers believe that camping can make you happier and 95 per cent of campers believe that camping reduces stress.
Alistair Mitchell was introduced to caravan and camping from an early age, and mental health is a topic close to his heart.
After previously working in the caravan and camping industry as a park manager and in corporate management, he is now a mental health advocate and health and wellness coach.
Mr Mitchell found his way following a series of challenging circumstances. He fell into an expensive drug addiction and faced his own mental health battle. He is now passionate about helping others to overcome similar circumstances.
“Camping allows us to break away from the chaos of life and enjoy the simplicity of nature,” he said.
“Physically being outside connects us more, and relaxes us. People forget [that] the most basic things are the most important sometimes.
“Although many campsites offer wifi, it is important to allow yourself time away from technology and connectedness … the decrease in constant stimulation [through] technology will encourage greater psychological and emotional health.
“With anything to do with mental health, open dialogue and communication is key to wellbeing, and in the past, mental health hasn’t really been an open discussion.”
What do you think? Are you a regular camper? Do you find it helps reduce stress and make you happier and healthier? Would you recommend it to non-campers?
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