Why Every College Student Should Go Camping at Least Once

By Cori Russell on October 25, 2012

 

Teambuilding

It is imporatant to be social to help us connect and grow as a society and also to entertain ourselves, build relationships, and have fun! Working with a small group to reach a goal is gratifying. And nothing says family like getting caught in the rain and having to work together to pitch a tent after you skipped dinner (and s’mores!) because no fire could be built – or waking up the next morning to a flowing stream of water and bright sun.

 

Navigation Skills

Learning to use a map and compass is a surprisingly useful skill. Next time time you can’t use your GPS (or if technology turns against us) it will be good to know how to get around. It will likely also increase your navigation skills just because you have to pay more attention to where you are moving so you don’t trip over roots or rocks.

 

Detoxification

Trees are natural filters for air and water. (You should still use a type of water purifier – tablet or pump – to avoid getting sick if you don’t bring water.) The sugar and chemicals from the junk food we eat clog our nervous system and affect hormone production. When we breath in the oxygen closer to the filter (trees) it will be less contaminated. Our bodies are like filters to the food we eat, air we breath, and what we drink. The water on a mountain is not only cleaner because it is closer to the source of rain, it is more purified as it passes through tree roots.

 

Relaxation

Little is more relaxing than resting after a long work out. Climbing part of a mountain to camp, and enjoying the sounds and sights of nature on the way, are very rewarding. Seeing the stars at night, away from the light pollution of cities, is also humbling. You also likely won’t be able to use your cell phone, or hair dryer, or Facebook, etc. so your  mind can be at ease while the rest of the world waits.

 

Meditation

Many well-known thinkers have spent time in caves (or basements) and on top of mountains. Occassionally separating yourself from society can help you to come to peace of mind about any recent issues you may have had. It can also be effective for problem solving because when you put yourself in a new context you will think differently. As a young, college student you are at a point in life where you have to make a lot of life-determining decisions. Meditating helps to make better decisions. Walking on different, literal paths, can help you to find which metaphorical paths are best for you.

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