Don't Worry, Be A Happy Camper

Posted on April 13, 2018

If you've ever been camping, you know the term "happy camper" is more than just a common saying. Camping is actually good for the mind, body, and soul, making most campers... well, happy!

Don't worry, be a happy camper:

• Camping, and spending time in the great outdoors, is good for your mental health in more ways than one. Research has shown that seeing green space is proven to reduce depression. There's also the added bonus of the sun. Soaking up rays supplies your body with much needed Vitamin D, which can be hard to come by if you spend most of your time indoors.

• Mother Nature can help your sleep cycle, too. It's common to experience better sleep while camping, and after returning from a camping trip. Your body is meant to rise with the sun and sleep at night. But, your sleep cycle can get disrupted by artificial light sources, like TVs, tablets, and smartphones. Without those, your circadian rhythm can reset, leading to better sleep.

• Even something as simple as the air you breathe while camping can make you happy! If you're camping near a wooded or forest area, it's likely there are higher levels of oxygen in the air. Your brain and body will both benefit from a breath of fresh air, literally.

• Whether you're at a remote campground or a Wi-Fi enabled resort, camping provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect from your devices. Embrace the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, without being glued to your phone! You might even be surprised at how easy it is to connect with those around you when there's not a phone in your hand.  

Luckily, in Santa Claus, Indiana, and sites throughout Lincoln's Indiana Boyhood Home, every camping option offers unique experiences. Every one of them will leave you a happy camper.   Sources: "The Science Behind Why Camping Makes You Happy" "9 Reasons Camping is Beneficial to Your Health" "Entrainment of the Human Circadian Clock to the Natural Light-Dark Cycle" "The Very Real Benefits of Going Camping"