Connections between Snowsports and Mental Health

The benefits of taking regular exercise are well known and documented to enhance us both physically and mentally, especially as a way of treating mild to moderate depression.  Our bodies are designed to move and with so many UK workers spending upwards of 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, sat at a desk working, the recommendation is to achieve a minimum of 75 minutes (ideally 150 minutes) exercise per week.

 

The Government’s definition of wellbeing is “a positive physical, social and mental state”, which includes having a sense of purpose, feeling connected to others, being able to adapt and being flexible with what life invariably throws our way. It doesn’t however, mean we’ll be happy 100% of the time, but the better our wellbeing is, the more equipped we are to deal with the more challenging situations that are an inevitable part of life.

 

Getting physical – regularly – improves not only our mood but also relieves stress.  Even a brisk walk for 15 minutes will boost our senses but doing something completely different, such as learning a brand new sport, can also invoke a true sense of achievement which in turn, heightens our self-esteem and confidence.  Couple this with the sheer exhilaration experienced through skiing and snowboarding and the potential to burn up to 400 calories an hour, you may find yourself adopting a whole new exercise regime!

 

Snowsports is historically and institutionally a seasonal sport, but the indoor snow centres in the UK have been trying to change this perception for many years now. The advent of indoor real snow slopes has mean that snowsports are now a year round activity and accessible to everyone. Snozone uniquely operate their own Disability snow school too so we can proudly say that when we say ‘sport for all’ we mean ‘sport for all’.

 

Snowsports are social sports with several online communities as well as the ability to meet like minded people out on the slopes, enabling us to derive happiness through social interaction.  Both skiing and snowboarding boost cardiovascular health, improves one’s core and overall balance, increases flexibility and builds stamina and they’re a lot more fun than pounding the treadmill in the gym! 

 

Although most forms of exercise will enable the body to release endorphins, the sheer exhilaration attained through Snowsports means that participants record a happier overall mind set, a reduction in stress and anxiety and a greater sense of self confidence, especially as regular practice develops both our abilities and wellbeing.  You may be a complete beginner or considering a return to skiing or snowboarding following a break, and remember you’re never too old to start. 

 

Sources:

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-to-using-exercise

https://www.skibasics.com/news/why-skiing-is-good-for-your-mental-health-ski-basics/

https://www.theinertia.com/health/a-beginners-guide-to-snowboardings-health-benefits/