Embracing the Healing Power of Whole Health Through Nature
Nine Veterans gathered on a cool Spring morning for much needed and awaited “outdoor therapy.” The weather was a perfect 50 degrees, there were no bugs out, and the vegetation had not yet grown back allowing visitors to see much more of the rock structures and trails more clearly.
Our team of dedicated recreation therapists, as part of our comprehensive Whole Health Program, diligently incorporate hiking as a therapeutic tool to support our Veterans in their journey towards holistic wellness. Nature has a unique way of rejuvenating the spirit and clearing the mind, making it an ideal environment for healing and growth.
“These types of activities actually help me feel more relaxed in a group setting. You know, we aren’t just sitting there in some clinical setting,” shares Army Veteran, Adam Gilbert.
One of the key benefits of hiking for our returning Veterans is its ability to promote mental clarity and emotional well-being. The rhythmic movement of walking combined with the fresh air and natural beauty of the surroundings can have a calming effect, reducing anxiety and stress levels. This meditative quality of hiking helps our Veterans to decompress, gain perspective, and find inner peace.
Recreation Therapist, Ethan Blumhorst shares that “Moving the body is vital physically and mentally, and hiking is great way to disconnect from the concrete jungle and rapid-fire stimuli thrown at us a hundred different ways a hundred times a day. In nature we can reconnect with ourselves, slow things down a bit and use all our senses to enjoy the gift of the present and just be a human being and not a human doing.”
Adam has been in the outdoor adventures program for about a year now and has participated in all of the adventures, to also include archery, kayaking, pickleball, disc golf, and hopefully golfing soon.
“I don’t work due to a disability, so I don’t have the opportunity to make any work friends. And I do have a spiritual community, but they tend to be older than me, so we don’t hang out much outside of church. This is a way for me to meet new people. We get to move our bodies while doing an activity and talk. We usually just end up joking and having fun the whole time, honestly.” Says Adam about his experiences and why he continues with the adventures.
Moreover, hiking is a great way to encourage physical activity and promote overall wellness. Engaging in regular exercise through hiking can improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and endurance, and boost mood and energy levels. Our recreation therapists work closely with our Veterans to tailor hiking experiences that suit their individual needs and fitness levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
“You can connect with your environment, and with others enjoying the moment which is great for mental and physical health. There is plenty of research as to why PACT ACT has incorporated outdoor recreation and therapy into treatment. Japanese culture has known the benefits of nature and hiking for the mind and body for generations, of which they have called forest bathing, “shinrin yoku.” I think it is more important than ever as we live in such a technological age with such instant gratification, we need to be able to unplug and just relax,” shares Ethan Blumhorst.
Through our Whole Health Program, we aim to empower our Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being by embracing the healing benefits of outdoor therapy, such as hiking. We are committed to providing comprehensive support and resources to help our Veterans thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.
“You always hear lots of laughing and joking at these events. It’s grown a bit and I’m excited to see what we do in the future,” shares Adam as a final word to his fellow Veterans.
If you would like to learn more about our Archery program, click here
If you would like to learn more about our Kayaking adventures, click here.
Whole Health also hosts a yearly Veterans Creative Arts Fest.
For more information or to make an appointment, Veterans and providers can reach out to Recreation Therapist, Ethan Blumhorst, at ethan.blumhorst@va.gov.