Why Getting Away From It All Is Good for You
Getaway today from your daily grind and get ready to enjoy improved health. Scientific research shows that when we spend time away from fluorescent lights, concrete walls, and asphalt highways, we can expect a boost to our overall well-being. The most therapeutic environment? The great outdoors!
That’s right. Studies have shown that spending time in nature has myriad effects on mental, physical, and spiritual health. That’s one of the reasons that The Hiding Place is such an ideal location to getaway today for a weekend or a week-long retreat.
The Hiding Place is situated far off the beaten path in 73 wooded acres on the banks of the Cumberland River. We have large porches and decks where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature while you sip hot coffee during your daily quiet time or take mealtime outdoors.
Hiking paths and trails around the property take you through the scenic woods—perfect for a jog, a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or a bike ride. Spacious green spaces allow for outdoor games or picnics, while plans to build a recreational court with a roof for basketball, badminton, volleyball, pickle ball, shuffle board, and four-square are underway now (you can donate to that effort here).
An Outdoor Getaway Is Good for You
You’ve probably experienced feeling better after time outside. Have you ever gone for a walk to “clear your head”? Maybe you’ve taken your afternoon break outside when you felt you just couldn’t read another line on the spreadsheet.
Do you ever feel a renewed sense of awe and worship when you see a pink and orange sunset? Is there something about hiking a mountain, walking on a seashore, or smelling honeysuckle in the woods that just makes you feel better?
Well, it’s not all in your head! Science actually backs up what we’ve all felt from time to time: time spent outdoors helps you mind, body, and soul.
Getting Outside Improves Mental Health
Stress, anxiety, and depression all decrease when we spend time outdoors. When we are stressed, we produce the hormone, cortisol. A couple of studies found that cortisol levels were measurably lower in individuals once they had been outside.
Clearer thinking, creativity, focus, and attention — all of these have been shown to improve once test subjects spent time outdoors.
Getting Outside Improves Physical Health
Can a walk in the woods help you fight cancer? Well, according to preliminary studies in Japan, spending time in a forest may increase the production of anti-cancer proteins. Even though more research is needed in this area, the studies also suggest that forest time may help boost humans’ immunity as well.
An Australian study found a link between time spent outdoors and improved vision, and another study found that people with inflammation and hypertension saw a decrease after spending time outdoors.
Getting Outside Improves Spiritual Health
From the first pages of Scripture to the new earth in Revelation, God’s handiwork is on full display in the creativity and beauty of nature. The natural world shouts the existence of an omnipotent and intelligent designer, which compels His people to worship. As the psalmist says:
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. – Psalm 19:1
Being outdoors is good for your soul and your relationships with others and with your creator.
The Hiding Place Is the Place to Getaway Today
If you’re needing a healthy dose of the outdoors and want a boost to mind, body, and soul, then plan your getaway today to The Hiding Place. You’ll have ample time and space for outdoor recreation and exploration. Enjoy the beauty of God’s creation at our retreat center in the woods.
The Hiding Place is an ideal venue for unplugging and reconnecting with God and loved ones; it’s perfect for your church’s next men’s retreat or women’s retreat.
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Every month we hold a drawing and give away a $100 discount voucher that can be used on your next reservation at The Hiding Place. Subscribe to our email list, and you’ll be entered to win!