I’ve been trying to get outdoors more this winter — specifically going hiking. With the snow and bitter cold, it has been difficult, but I would say I definitely got out more than in past years. Now that temperatures are warming up I’m excited to keep up this habit of hiking more often. I like hiking because of the combination of physical and mental health benefits. It’s not just hiking though, lots of outdoor activities are beneficial for our overall wellbeing — gardening, sports, kayaking, and so many more. 

Take a moment to close your eyes and visualize some of your favorite natural sounds and scenes — maybe it’s a stream running through the woods, the sun setting on a lake, or getting a glimpse of wildlife. One of my favorites is the sound of Mourning Doves in the morning during spring and summer. Imagining these scenes can remind us of the calmness we feel when we’re actually in that setting that we forget about if it’s been a while since we were there (like during winter). 

Emerging research is showing that time in nature is good for our mental health. A report from United States Department of Agriculture that detailed many of the benefits of nature on our health noted that nature can help people deal with day-to-day stresses — making them feel more relaxed. It can also help increase brain function, meaning that people can solve problems, communicate and focus on tasks more effectively. Lastly, spending time outdoors can promote healing for those struggling with their mental health and those living with mental illness. Researchers haven’t found out why nature is beneficial for mental health yet, and more studies around this topic are being done. 

The CDC recommends that adults get about 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. This breaks down to a little more than 20 minutes of physical activity per day. These 20 minutes can be broken up into two 10-minute walks for example, or whatever routine works best for the individual.  The most important thing is to get moving. Getting outdoors presents numerous opportunities to get in the recommended amount of physical activity. 

Green County and our neighboring counties have lots of great locations for outdoor recreation. In Green County some of my favorite locations include the New Glarus Woods State Park which is just south of New Glarus and has miles of beautiful hiking trails through the woods and prairie. Another favorite of mine is Cadiz Springs State Recreation Area which is outside of Browntown. I always like to go for a walk around the lake, but I often see others fishing while I’m there. The Sugar River State Trail which starts in New Glarus, goes through Monticello and ends in Albany is another great opportunity to exercise outdoors. While it’s perfect for biking, it’s also a good spot for walking or jogging. To find more local recreation opportunities go to: http://www.greencounty.org/outdoors-trails.html?Category=9.

Sometimes it can be difficult to dedicate time to drive to a park, take time to hike and drive back home. Instead, you can take advantage of the green spaces closer to you with the time you have available. For example — some of our Public Health staff members like to go for walks around the Pleasant View Complex during their lunch when the weather is nice. If you have a few moments throughout the day to get some exercise and be outside, they start to add up! Researchers have found that even brief “nature breaks” can improve brain performance by providing a break from the demands of life. You can also get the benefits of nature and physical activity in your own yard by doing tasks like tending to your garden, or yard work. 

If you do venture out to local parks, or perhaps you have green space at home to enjoy — there are some important things to keep in mind. With spring comes tick season, ticks can spread illness to humans including Lyme disease. To help prevent tick bites while you’re outdoors use insect repellent, wear light-colored long sleeves and pants, walk in the center of trails, and check for ticks after being outdoors. In the spring time when snow is melting and some areas may be flooded it’s a good idea to check the website of the park or trail you’re planning to go to ahead of time to see if any areas are closed. Before you head out, let a friend or family member know where you’re going and what trails you’ll be on.  

While exercise, and spending time in nature can supplement person’s mental health self-care, there are additional mental health resources available in Green County. Visit the Southwestern Wisconsin Behavioral Health Partnership website to find more information: https://southwestern.wi.networkofcare.org/mh/#passageCovidHeader.

I hope that you can take advantage of the wonderful opportunities we have in Green County to get outdoors. When you need a mental health boost, or are feeling restless and need to get some exercise — consider stepping outside. 

— Bridget Craker is the Public Health Educator for the Green County Public Health Department and can be reached at bcraker@greengountywi.org or 608-328-9509.