5 Reasons Why Camping Can Bring You Happiness



The Great Outdoors is not for everyone. It’s raw, dirty, and you're exposed to the elements.  (And there are bugs. Oh, the bugs.)



No matter how rugged (or fancy) your outdoor adventure, there are qualities about camping we won't find elsewhere in one complete package. What could be better than that? If you’re a camping veteran, you know what I’m talking about. If you’re new to the scene, grab your backpack, you’re going to love this.



Since June is National Camping Month, I decided to give you five reasons why camping can bring you happiness:



Slowing Down

As soon as you hit your campsite, it’s like time has been reset. Setting up your “new living space” can be a meditative process (unless you have small children). Cooking food over a fire forces you to slow down and the simple act of sleeping outside can bring about a symphony of sounds that even the best app can’t mimic.



Quality Time

This is by far the best thing about camping. It’s THE reason to go camping - even if you go alone. Quality time can come in many forms: hiking, campfires, s’mores, throwing rocks in the water, etc. Whether you have small children or not, you can collect rocks, pine cones, shells, or whatever else you find in your travels. It’s a sliver of time where you can truly connect with family, friends, and remember yourself.



Creativity

At first glance, camping doesn’t seem creative. But nothing could be further from the truth. The second you start planning your trip the creativity begins. It forces you to think about how you’re going to accomplish normal everyday tasks, like cooking. And it doesn’t end until the moment you leave (when you have to get creative about how you’re going to repack everything - including your newly found, nature-y loot). Journaling, painting, even singing and playing guitar around the campfire allows the creative sparks to fly.



Appreciation in the Little Things

It should go without saying that roughing it in the woods for a few days puts things in perspective. While sleeping under the stars is enjoyable, there is nothing like returning home to your comfy bed. Ditto for basic daily amenities - like showers and electricity. A camping trip is an opportunity to observe the small details of life and those around you.



Healthy Habits

It’s only natural to pick up extra activities when visiting the great outdoors. Walking, hiking, and biking along with canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, camping encourages all sorts of healthy activities. Often these activities have a way of following you home and leading into other forms of self care. You may find new healthy habits popping up, whether it’s finding a new local hiking trail or scheduling a massage www.temassagetherapy.com



Camping comes with a handful of challenges (how to perfectly toast a marshmallow) but it’s also the perfect opportunity to enjoy your friends, family, and everything nature has to offer. And THAT can bring you happiness.



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