A type of therapy that is growing in popularity is called “outdoor therapy.” The concept behind outdoor therapy, sometimes called wilderness therapy, is to help people reconnect with themselves and their community by spending time in the outdoors. Hiking, fishing and camping are popular forms of outdoor therapy. Read on to learn more about the science-backed benefits of being outdoors and how you can incorporate outdoor therapy into your life.
Why Being Outdoors is Good for You
Many people can attest to the rejuvenating effects of being out in nature. They often feel more at ease, less reactionary, and all-around more blissful after enjoying time outdoors. Outdoor activities are even becoming a more-recognized method of therapy. You may have heard of forest bathing, or forest therapy. This newer type of therapy simply involves walking through a forest in a relaxed and mindful manner. In addition to anecdotal evidence about the benefits of being outdoors, and emerging types of outdoor therapy, there is an increasing amount of data backing up the therapeutic effects of spending time in nature.
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The Benefit of Outdoor Therapy for Veterans
A study performed by researchers at the University of Michigan found a positive correlation in stress reduction, attentional functioning, positive affect, and overall sense of wellbeing one week after a structured outdoor activity. These activities included backpacking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and fly fishing.
In fact, in May 2019, the state of New Jersey introduced a bill called the Outdoor Recreation Therapy for Veterans Act which mandates the organization of a task force to study the implementation of a outdoor-focused, mental-health program for veterans.
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State Park Discounts & Events on Veterans Day
Most state parks offer free park entrance on Veterans Day and free entrance to Veterans Day state park events. Additionally, many states offer year-round discounted park passes to military, veteran or wounded warriors. Below are some examples:
Georgia
Georgia residents who are active duty or retired military can purchase a daily or annual Georgia State Park pass at 25 percent off. On Veterans Day, military veterans can golf for free at any of the eight state park golf courses. And, Hardman Farm state historic site is offering all veterans, military service members, and their families free admission.
Texas
Both active and retired military will be given free entrance to all Texas State Parks on Veterans Day. Additionally, the state offers a Disabled Veterans passport that provides free entry to all Texas state parks. One guest accompanying the pass holder can enter at 50 percent off the entry fee.
Florida
Active duty military, veterans, reservists and National Guard can get 25 percent off the entrance fee to any Florida State Park. Additionally, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park will celebrate Veterans Day with special programs and exhibits showcasing the connection between the park and local military history from 7:30am – 11:00am. The event and park admission is free during event hours.
Kansas
Kansas offers reduced or free fishing and hunting licenses, discounted or free Kansas State Park admission, and other perks to National Guard members, disabled veterans, veterans and active duty military.
New York
Disabled veterans can apply for the Lifetime Liberty Pass, which offers discounts at New York State Parks and historic sites. On Veterans Day, Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site will host a commemoration ceremony.
Minnesota
Active military personnel and their dependents, disabled veterans, and Purple Heart recipients can receive a year-round vehicle permit for free, which provides unlimited access to all 75 Minnesota State Parks and recreation areas.
Indiana
If you have a Disabled Hoosier Veteran license plate, or are eligible for one, you may purchase a Hoosier Golden Passport. This year-long pass provides unlimited admission to all Indiana State Parks, recreation areas and reserves.
Colorado
All 41 Colorado State Parks are offering free admission on Veterans Day to active duty military, military veterans, military reserve, and the National Guard. All companions in the same vehicle also get free admission. Additionally, active duty military personnel and veterans are admitted free to state parks the entire month of August. And, state residents with up-to-date Disabled Veterans license plates can obtain a specialized plate through the DMV that grants free admission to state parks year-round.
Utah
Qualifying disabled veterans are eligible for an Honor Pass. These are day use passes to all Utah State Parks for the veteran and up to 7 guests in the same vehicle. The pass is good for the calendar year.
Oregon
The state offers free day-use passes and free camping at Oregon State Parks for veterans with any level of service-connected disability and active duty military on official leave. The pass is good for four years.
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