You are here

Could A "Park Prescription" Be Just What The Doctor Ordered For America's Health?

Share

Published Date

February 9, 2014

There's been no shortage of discussion about the unhealthy lifestyle for too many Americans, and perhaps a new year has inspired you to make some changes. If that's the case, a "park prescription" from your health care professional provide a little nudge ... and could prove to be a literal application of the proverbial "just what the doctor ordered."

National parks have long been recognized as places to enjoy a host of fun activities amidst some of our nation's premier natural and historical treasures. Now there's a renewed realization that spending time out of doors on a regular basis is good for our health, and the "Healthy Parks, Healthy People" program is encouraging that to happen.

The "Healthy Parks, Healthy People" (HPHP) program is an international initiative, and a HPHP global summit held in Australia in 2010 attracted 1,200 participants from 37 nations. The program is starting to gain some traction here in the U.S. and the following short video offers a summary of the advantages we can gain if we—and our medical professionals—choose to embrace the program.

One National Park Service area that already has a program well underway is Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and a brochure for that area offers a reminder of a situation many of us share: "Our lives are filled with hours parked in front of televisions or using electronic devices."

That brochure also offers one solution to bring some balance to that lifestyle: "Unplug and reconnect with nature’s power. Whether taking a vigorous hike or a gentle stroll in the park, getting back to nature can improve your physical health, as well as emotional and mental wellbeing."

When health do issues arise we usually look for help from our health care providers, but what if part of the suggested solution for many aliments was a written prescription to take a walk, bicycle, kayak, or some similar activity in a national park, or a similar area near home?

That’s exactly what a “park prescription” is. Whether taking a vigorous hike or a gentle stroll in park, getting back to nature can improve our physical health, as well as emotional and mental wellbeing.

Clearly, physical activity isn't the answer to every medical problem, but for many of us, there's little doubt we could benefit by more outdoor activity. Physicians around the country are beginning to actively promote the use of parks and similar outdoor spaces, as illustrated by a pair of articles posted on the Healthy Parks, Healthy People US website: "Take a Hike and Call Me in the Morning" and "Head Out for a Daily Dose of Green Space."

Like to learn more about this program, or even learn how you might share the idea with your own health care provider? you can download a copy of the The National Parks and Public Health: A NPS Healthy Parks, Healthy People Science Plan at this link.

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

 

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

Your urgent support helps the National Parks Traveler increase awareness of the wonders and issues confronting national parks and protected areas.

Support Our Mission

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.