Original blog post from March, 2024:
Downhill skiing represents one of the most popular winter sports worldwide. Over 2,000 downhill ski areas are spread across 67 countries with an estimated 400 million skier days annually (Vanat, 2018)
Skiing and snowboarding are not just thrilling winter sports; they are also powerful ways to boost your mental well-being. The combination of crisp mountain air, breathtaking scenery, and the adrenaline rush of gliding down snow-covered slopes creates a unique cocktail of benefits for the mind.
1. Nature’s Embrace:
Skiing/snowboarding allows one to have an outdoor experience in nature. The awe-inspiring mountain landscape, fresh air and the panoramic views can have a calming effect, helping to alleviate stress and boost your overall mood. We also know that vistas allows us to feel a sense of being part of something bigger and can create moments of awe, which leads to more gratitude and appreciation.
2. Endorphin Explosion:
The physical activity involved in skiing triggers the release of endorphins, those magical neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of happiness and euphoria. Carving through the snow activates various muscle groups, providing a full-body workout while simultaneously enhancing your mental state.
3. Mindful Movement:
Skiing/snowboarding demands focus and concentration, especially when navigating challenging terrains. The need to stay present in the moment promotes mindfulness, allowing skiers to temporarily escape the pressures of daily life and immerse themselves in the joy of the downhill journey. This becomes even more important for out mental health in todays highly distractible world and is a go to sport and management tool for those with ADHD.
4. Social Connection:
Skiing/snowboarding is often a social activity, offering an opportunity to bond with friends, family, community members or even strangers. Sharing the slopes with others fosters a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a positive social environment—a crucial aspect of mental well-being. And chair lift rides provide great opportunities for connection.
5. Challenge and Triumph:
Conquering the slopes and new terrain and challenges provides a sense of achievement and boosts self-esteem. Overcoming challenges on the mountain translates to a renewed confidence that can positively impact other areas of life, instilling a mindset of resilience and determination.
6. Winter Sunlight and Vitamin D:
Exposure to natural sunlight, even in winter, promotes the production of vitamin D, a crucial factor in maintaining mental health. Skiing outdoors allows enthusiasts to soak in the winter sun, supporting both physical and mental well-being.
7. Escape from Routine:
Skiing/snowboarding offers a break from the monotony of daily routines. The change of scenery, the thrill of the descent, and the adventure of exploring new slopes contribute to a sense of escapism, providing a mental reset that can enhance overall happiness.
These are just some of the mental health benefits of skiing and snowboarding.
Update to the blog as of 12/5/2024:
A study in the Journal of Exercise and Rehabilitation (Lee, et al., 2019) found that skiing greatly reduces stress levels in students. The results were based on outcomes using the Academic Stress Inventory , Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) to measure enjoyment, and heart rate measurements to measure the impact of skiing on stress, heart rate, apprehension, and enjoyment. Given that stress is a primary determinant of one’s personal health and happiness, being able to have activities that are known to mitigate and manage stress are essential to living a balanced life.
A Balanced Life also happens to be the name of our group practice in South Lake Tahoe, CA. We are private group therapy practice providing both in-person and online therapy to children, teens, adults, families and couples in the Lake Tahoe region and virtually for all California and Nevada residents. Lake Tahoe is infamous for its 14 ski mountains in the area, and ski/snowboard culture is ingrained and integral to so many lives here. So whether you live here or are visiting, are on the bunny slopes or double black diamonds, enjoy the experience, have some fun, and get to know some of your fellow skiers/snowboarders on the slopes.
If you are interested in therapy for yourself, a loved one, your relationship or family call our office today to setup a free 15 minute consult with one of our 6 highly skilled therapists with varying specialties in evidence-based modalities:
(530) 544-1748.
