How Raleigh Expeditions Can Boost Wellbeing Through Outdoor Adventure

Spending time outdoors has been shown to have significant, positive affects on our well-being. That’s why we champion the power of Raleigh Expeditions to support young adults to make a difference for others and experience a real and positive difference within themselves.  

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the world around you? You’re not alone. In our fast-paced, tech-driven society, it’s all too easy to get swept up in the daily stresses around your studies or work, as well as other pressures and anxieties that come up in everyday life.   

Let’s talk about how embracing an outdoor adventure can benefit you!  

The Importance of Time in Nature for Wellbeing   

Nature can provide a much-needed reprieve from the modern world. Studies have shown that even a short time spent outdoors can give you a natural mood boost while also reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Natural greenery can be especially soothing. Studies have found that the colour green activates your parasympathetic nervous system, encouraging relaxation while toning down your sympathetic nervous system, which controls your “fight-or-flight” response. 

On top of this, nature can promote mindfulness and tranquillity by allowing you to escape the pressures of daily life. Raleigh International’s no-phones on project policy was designed to promote these benefits by giving Venturers a beneficial break from the distraction of technology.  

Our Expeditions take place in some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. Whether it’s exploring the jungles of Borneo, the beaches of Costa Rica, the plains of South Africa, or the sacred forests of Kenya, Venturers on a Raleigh International Expedition will be able to tap into a meaningful connection to the natural world without the disturbance of a phone.  

Brain-Boosting Effects of the Outdoors on Expedition 

Spending time outside can shake up our brain chemistry – in a good way! For instance, green spaces can boost serotonin levels, often referred to as the “feel-good” brain chemical. Fresh air increases the oxygen in our brains and raises serotonin levels too, plus there are interesting microorganisms in the soil that also have proven mood benefits. As part of a Raleigh Expedition, you’ll spend hours in nature, soaking up the sunlight, breathing in fresh air and getting your hands dirty, all of which are proven to elevate mood. 

When sunlight hits our skin and eyes, our brain releases serotonin, our body’s internal clock is regulated so we sleep better and our bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for our wellbeing. Participating in a Raleigh Expedition, where you will be trekking across varied terrain and working on hands-on projects, could be a perfect way to boost your mood and promote a healthier lifestyle.

The Benefits of Adventure-Based Novelty on Mental Well-being 

Pushing yourself to join a Raleigh Expedition, where you will test your limits and step outside of your comfort zone, could have a substantially positive effect on your personal life and future. 

There’s no doubt that work and personal responsibilities can be stressful and lead to burnout. That’s why it’s so important for young adults to make time for fun and adventure. It’s not just for enjoyment, it’s also crucial to keep your well-being in check. Here are just a few examples of what you could experience by joining a Raleigh International Expedition: 

Boosted Creativity: New sights and experiences, combined with important cross-cultural learning, will get your brain thinking in fresh ways, opening up paths for solving problems and coming up with innovative ideas. 

Improved Mental Agility: Picking up new skills, like leadership, teamwork or even carpentry and construction, helps your brain make new connections, boosting your mental flexibility. 

Increased Resilience: Taking on challenges in new settings, whether it’s volunteering on a Raleigh Expedition in Borneo, South Africa, Kenya or Costa Rica, will help to build your resilience, boost your confidence and help you handle stress: tools you can use throughout your life. 

Enjoy a Sense of Achievement: Seeing the impact of your community and environmental project, or summiting a difficult climb on your adventure leadership trek, will leave you with a satisfying sense of achievement. This self-esteem boost can lead to a more positive view of yourself and a greater sense of purpose. 

Build Stronger Social Bonds: Going on adventures with other like-minded Venturers will help you make friends for life and create lasting memories, which are key for emotional well-being. 

Make Time for Fun & Adventure 

Ultimately, outdoor adventures like Raleigh Expeditions can present a fantastic opportunity to boost your well-being. By getting out of your comfort zone and exploring new places, terrains, and skills, you can become a happier, healthier and more resilient individual.   

Even if you’re not joining an Expedition just yet, spending time outdoors in any form, whether it’s in a local park or hiking trail, can help relieve stress and improve your mood. Incorporating regular doses of fun and adventure into your life lets you step out, face new challenges, and rediscover the excitement and wonder we often leave behind as we grow older. 

If you are ready to take the leap, Raleigh Expeditions offer a perfect mix of travel and meaningful work, giving you the chance to explore new exciting locations across the globe, all while reaping the many benefits of spending quality time in nature. 

Ready for an adventure?  

Embark on an exciting journey with Raleigh International and let meaningful time in nature empower you to find your best self.