Skiing is fun and all, but someone might ask, “what are the mental health benefits?”. Not only is skiing an adrenaline rush of pure joy, but it also has many positive side effects on mental health and wellbeing. This article points out a few perks of skiing, and by the end of reading, you’ll be wanting to go find out the rest from first hand experience of a day out on the slopes!

Aerobic and cardiovascular exercises are known to reduce stress hormones in the body. Instead of producing the stress hormones, the brain begins releasing endorphins as a result of the active nature of skiing. These added mood boosters will give you that awesome feeling during and after exercise commonly known as ‘runner’s high’. Just one week of skiing will increase your endurance and overall fitness level, prolonging the effects of a healthy body and clear mind even after you get back home!

Not only do you get the benefit of increased endorphin levels from skiing, but doing something you love makes you more likely to continue on with it. Creating consistency with skiing will further the long term results of improved mental and physical health by adopting an active lifestyle! In the long run, exercise from skiing improves sleep quality and increases energy levels in daily life. 

A day on the mountain and a day at home may feel like two totally different worlds, but the confidence you gain from skiing is an asset to bring back home or to the office. That feeling of accomplishment after making it off the bunny hill, or finally conquering that double black diamond run is so satisfying. Naturally, as someone progresses in a sport their self esteem levels go up. It is so rewarding to push yourself outside of your comfort zone to better yourself. Kids who ski will see that they can achieve what they put their minds to, giving them more confidence to face their everyday challenges. Parents - take note of how your shy little one comes out of their shell as they become a better skier!

A study by John Hopkins Medicine proves that only 79% of kids feel they have a close relationship with their parents. Family ski trips are a great way to get the family out of the house doing an active sport together. Learning, growing, and being active together as a family strengthens parent child relationships through quality time and shared experiences. The same goes for anyone else you want to increase bond with; so take a day of skiing to get to know a friend, relative, coworker, or even that one in-law! Ski resorts by nature are a social place, so inevitably you’ll probably find yourself making new friends along the way. The sense of community on the slopes makes for a better social life, and is a fantastic way to meet like minded people with similar interests. Who knows, maybe the next person you sit next to on the chairlift will be your new best friend! 

Being outside brings us back to embrace a childlike playfulness seeking adventure. Fresh air is often all we need to refresh and reset our minds after a stressful week. Spending time in nature is known to greatly reduce stress and anxiety. Along with the majestic view of the mountains as you're gliding down a groomed trail comes a sense of peacefulness and serenity. When we are tasked with making a big decision, sometimes it is helpful to take time to clear your mind to achieve clarity. Taking a solo day on the mountain to ski is a great tool to help the decision making process, or to just take your mind off other things.

Getting out on the mountain on a beautiful bluebird day, not a cloud in sight, is every skier's idea of a perfect day. Add a little extra pow, some fresh tracks, and right there folks is the dream! On a sunny day it is the vitamin D from sun rays that boosts overall mood. Vitamin D even more importantly reduces the impact and risks of developing depression. We don’t get enough sun these days! 

Now you’ve learned some of the benefits of skiing to your mental and physical health. Next time you find yourself grinning ear to ear after your first run of the season, you know why. So get out there! Your mind and body will thank you!