Getting Outside For Mental Health? Yes, Please
As the whirlwind of 2024 continues and travel reaches record-breaking levels, one sentiment is resonating loudly among travelers: “We want OUT!” This message is not just about escaping daily routines but finding solace in the tranquility of nature. According to a recent survey by Campspot, the leading booking site for private campgrounds, nearly three-quarters (72%) of campers feel stressed about economic uncertainty this year. Moreover, an overwhelming 94% believe taking a breakthrough camping is crucial.
“Taking breaks can switch someone from being in sympathetic mode (fight, flight, or freeze) to regulate back to parasympathetic mode (eat, relax, and sleep),” said Dr. Dana Wang, psychiatrist and co-founder of Rivia Mind, a telepsych mental health service company. Being in nature has the magic effect of turning on that switch automatically by recruiting your nervous system to do its job. Many studies have found that participants who simply step outdoors have lower cortisol levels, sleep better at night (due to sunlight exposure), and are happier.
Recognizing this need for calm, Campspot is launching the “Summer Slowdown Snail Mail Sweepstakes,” offering one grand prize winner and four runners-up a chance to embrace a slower pace of life in the great outdoors. “Our ‘Summer Slowdown’ survey confirms a growing trend—travelers are increasingly seeking a break from the hustle, and our ‘Snail Mail Sweepstakes’ is our playful way of embracing this movement,” says Erin Stender, CMO of Campspot. “Camping has evolved beyond tents and s’mores; it now frequently serves as a powerful remedy for our stressed-out souls. Our data shows that this trend has steadily gained momentum since last year. Campspot’s goal is to create more opportunities for everyone to experience the restorative power of camping firsthand.”
Last year, Campspot predicted 2024 to be the Year of the Calm-Cation, and recent data corroborates this, with even more campers yearning for the calming effects of nature this summer. While adventure and new experiences were top priorities for travelers last year, this summer’s survey indicates that a “sense of calm and relaxation” (70%) and “a break from the everyday routine” (66%) have taken precedence.
Additionally, 90% of respondents expressed concerns about shrinkflation, admitting it has impacted their travel plans this year. Interestingly, 98% of campers report that camping positively affects their mental health, with 90% feeling happier when camping compared to other types of trips. Remarkably, 86% of campers would prefer a week of free camping over a week at a luxury spa.
The “Summer Slowdown Snail Mail Sweepstakes” invites everyone to embrace life in the slow lane. Participants can enter the contest by mailing in their favorite tips or words of wisdom for a stress-free life or enjoyable camping trip. The grand prize includes two weeks of camping at any Campspot award-winning campground across the United States, complete with a food and travel stipend and a bundle of relaxing camping must-haves. Four runners-up will receive a $350 camping credit.
Details for Entry:
How to Enter: Mail your favorite handwritten tip for a stress-free life or camping trip on 8.5×11 paper to: Campspot Summer Slowdown 38 Commerce Ave SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Eligibility: Tips may be attributed to camping enthusiasts of any age (with their permission), but for legal reasons, sweepstake entrants must be at least 18 years old. Visit the sweepstakes page for full submission requirements.
Deadline: Entries must be postmarked by August 9, 2024.
