Innovative solutions like Blue Trails can help communities stay healthy and address nature-deficit disorder.
I love summer – endless sunshine and spending most, if not all, of my free time outside. There are new places to discover – backyards, parks, and rivers to name a few – that become my favorite summer spots. Exploring the great outdoors isn’t only fun but it helps me stay fit and healthy.
One of my favorite places to explore, especially in the summer, is the Eagle River in Colorado. Thanks to the Eagle River Blue Trail and ECO Trail I can run, bike, hike, and paddle all while taking in the sights and sounds the Eagle has to offer.
Unfortunately, according to the Center for Disease Control, 80 percent of American adults don’t get the recommended amounts of exercise each week, potentially setting themselves up for years of health problems.
Kids are increasingly spending more time indoors, leading to “nature-deficit disorder” as author and journalist Richard Louv wrote in his book, Last Child in the Woods. In his book, Louv explains the cost to individual health as children spend more time indoors and away from nature.
I am fortunate to have places like the Eagle River near my home that make is easy for me to exercise and enjoy the outdoors at the same time without costing me much, if anything.
Many communities are realizing the health benefits of getting people outdoors and are investing in innovative solutions like Blue Trails.
How do you like to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors?
