As the summer weather begins to emerge, Ontarians are being encouraged to boost their health by stepping into nature at any of Ontario’s nearly 300 Conservation Areas.
Conservation Ontario, CMHA Ontario and partners have launched Healthy Hikes, an annual health and wellness initiative that runs from May to October. Participants are encouraged to visit a local conservation area, snap a fun selfie or nature image, and share it on social media using the hashtags #HealthyHikes & #StepIntoNature. Participants can also register on the Healthy Hikes website to track their time spent hiking at Conservation Areas.
Research shows that there are significant mental health benefits of exposure to natural settings or “green spaces.” Being active in nature can lead to:
- More energy and a greater sense of revitalization
- Less tension, confusion, anger, and depression
- Better self-esteem, mood, attention and concentration
- Less risk of mental health problems
Learn more at HealthyHikes.ca.