Take a Break and Get Outside this Summer!
By Megan “Rory” Morgan
When you think of summer camp, you probably think of a lake and lots of trees. There’s a reason why camp is so associated with the outdoors - It provides a space away from the normal routines of life which often include being inside.
I really don’t have to give you 20 academic sources that say spending time outside is good for your health and for your soul….but I will give you three! It’s 2021, and after a year of screens and technology, we all could use some time outside!
Scientifically Proven
So why is the great outdoors so important for kids? Besides the fact that kids don’t get into the dirt and mud enough, there are actual, statistically significant reasons that being outside helps kids’ physical health. This study found that Greenspace exposure is associated with wide ranging health benefits across 143 included studies. I know I might be getting a little too academic for you, but the point is that studies have shown that the outdoors is very, very important for human development and health. There are also many studies that indicate time in nature provides significant benefits to emotional and mental health.
New Experiences to Try
The camp experience provides a variety of new ways to interact with nature. Eat outside over a fire: check. Sleep under the star-filled sky: check. Spend devotional time in God’s word on the banks of the lake as the morning mist spreads over the water: check. All of these things are new and awe-inspiring experiences that kids don’t often get to enjoy in their day-to-day lives. Even more so, it helps them appreciate the moments alone with God outdoors.
God Displays Himself in Creation
The Bible is filled with stories of people taking time in nature and the wilderness to reflect and grow closer to God. Through the songs of David, God tells us to reflect on his creation: “On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate” (Psalm 145:5, ESV). In Job 12:7-10, God shows us that he has given us nature to show us HIM! He is in everything: the animals, the birds in the sky, the fish of the sea, all the Earth is there to exalt him. And we are meant to enjoy being with Him in His creation.
We hope you’ll join us this summer and get outside! Camp Cedarbrook provides a unique wilderness camp experience that will help you connect with the Lord.
And just in case you want some academic sources talking about the importance of getting outside - because part of my year is spent in academia, so I can’t resist a good academic article - here they are:
