Brits are looking for new ways to gain a greater balance in their life and lower their stress levels – by getting involved in outdoor pursuits.
According to a study by Heathrow Airport, one in five adults take part in adventure sports to help them enjoy a “real release” from their daily pressures. Among the most popular activities for stress-relief are mountain biking, skiing, and boxing.
A Heathrow spokesperson said: “We could all do with making sure we deal with our stress – and doing something exciting can help.”
It was added: “An activity or trip that takes you out of your comfort zone can help to focus the mind on the task at hand, rather than dwelling on potentially stressful thoughts or anxieties.”
In addition to this, many of these extreme sports involve exercise, which has a positive effect on mental health.
Taking part in outdoor pursuits could be something that interests many Brits, as the survey of 2,000 adults showed three-quarters thought their lives were stressful. It also found 76 per cent believed they have become more susceptible to stress as they got older, which means adventure sports could be a hobby that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
According to the survey, a third say doing something active makes them feel ‘alive’, one-fifth claim it makes them feel ‘completely free’, and 15 per cent believe it ‘gets them out of their own head’.
Taking part in outdoor activities can benefit everyone, no matter what their age. While adults claim it eases their stress levels, it has also been shown to help children with their studies.
Independent Education Today recently reported that pupils who are regularly involved in outdoor learning make four months of additional academic progress.
For adventure activities in Derbyshire, take a look here.
