- Sunshine—Did you know that most people are deficient in Vitamin D? This vitamin is essential to our health, and deficiencies have been linked to serious health issues. While getting too much sun can be potentially harmful, it’s also an important source of Vitamin D. In the summer months, 10-15 minutes of unprotected sunlight, three times per week, is plenty of time to absorb a good amount! After that, make sure to apply SPF to protect yourself before the UV rays become harmful. If you spend an extended period in the sun, your skin will continue to absorb Vitamin D even through the sunscreen.
Soak in New Experiences This Summer
By Amanda “Mandy” Simons, Girl Experience Manager
Spring is here, and summer is right around the corner! As the weather gets warmer, the opportunity for exciting adventures increases! While winter activities can be fun and fulfilling, the warmer months allow you to spend extended time outside and in nature. Studies show that humans greatly benefit from spending time outside close to the earth, under the trees and around the water.
Benefits of the Outdoors
Here are a few ways that exposure to the great outdoors can positively affect your body, mind and spirit.
- Forest Bathing—Studies indicate that the human body responds to the chemicals released into the atmosphere by trees. Trees release phytoncides, which are antibacterial and antifungal; when we breathe the air around trees, we breathe in the phytoncides. By spending time under the canopy, we can boost our immune system, mood and focus. Plus, it can reduce stress, improve sleep and lower blood pressure. Even just sitting under the trees can have a profound effect!
- Water Therapy—Similar to the “green space” of trees, the “blue space” of water can have a positive physiological effect. The sound of moving water, as well as the negatively charged ions it produces, can trigger endorphin release in the brain, improving mood, reducing stress and increasing mental clarity.
There are many ways your troop can enjoy time outside and even earn badges or patches. Some adventures are closer than you think! If your troop is looking for inspiration and motivation to get outside, here are a few ideas for day trips. Pair them with a camping trip and you have the perfect overnight!
How Can You Enjoy the Outdoors?
- Waterfalls—New York and Pennsylvania are chock-full of waterfalls, and some might even be in your neighborhood. Try creating a waterfall bucket list for the summer! Check out these detailed, interactive waterfall maps for N.Y. and Pa.
- Ride the Rails—Want to take a biking adventure but avoid busy roads? Ride the Rails combines teamwork and scenic routes for a unique biking experience along the retired railway. There are locations in Cooperstown, N.Y., the Catskills and more if you’re looking for a bigger adventure.
- Wildflower Hunt—Create a scavenger hunt of native flowers and plants, then go for a walk or a hike and see how many you can check off your list. ·
- Birdwatching—Find your local Audubon chapter and see what kinds of events and activities they offer. If you want to go on your own, take a field guide or try downloading an app, such as Merlin, to assist you in identifying birds by sight and sound.
- Highway Adoption—Want to spend time outside AND make a difference? Adults and Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors can adopt a highway in N.Y. or Pa. to help keep the roadsides clean and beautiful by clearing litter and planting (approved) flowers and plants.
- Trail Maintenance—Similar to the Adopt a Highway program, several organizations offer opportunities for volunteers to help maintain trails, including the Nature Conservancy in Pa., Parks & Trails New York, N.Y. State Parks, Recreations & Historic Preservation, KTA in Pa. and the Appalachian Trail.
For questions or help to organize a troop trip, contact Girl Experience Manager Amanda “Mandy” Simons at asimons@gsnypenn.org.
Sources:
Healthline
N.Y. State Department of Environmental Conservation
Garden Ponds Unlimited
