The Outdoor Directory

Enjoy the Outdoors – Mind Body and Soul

The Outdoor Directory

Enjoy the Outdoors – Mind Body and Soul

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Blackdog Outdoors - a platform for re-connecting people
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Blackdog Outdoors - a platform for re-connecting people
Mountaineering-Skills-1-2048×1365
Water-Sports-Mental-Health-scaled-1-2048×1366

Blackdog Outdoors – a platform for re-connecting people with the great outdoors

Blackdog Outdoors are a national mental health charity providing free outdoor activity and adventure

Description

Who we are

As a signatory of the Mental Health Charter we are actively encouraging people to take up outdoor activities and, to help people on their way, we organise recreational events for people to attend at no cost. The role of sport and recreation in improving mental health is now becoming increasingly clear. The effects of outdoor activities can include stress reduction, improved mood, improved self-esteem and improved health and general well-being.

Our Aim

A re-connection with nature, and the role of sport and recreation in improving mental health, is now becoming increasingly clear. The effects of outdoor activities can include stress reduction, improved mood, improved self-esteem and improved health and general wellbeing.  However, there are known challenges that act as constraints to participation: lack of confidence, lack of awareness, anxiety, and cost.

We have established Blackdog Outdoors to remove these blockers, and to support people in spending quality time in our green and blue spaces, for improved wellbeing.  We organise recreational events for people to attend at no cost.  Details of these events, which are managed by professionally qualified outdoor professionals and supported by mental health first aiders, can be found on the events page of this site.

Walking is an excellent way to improve physical health.

The slower pace (compared to running or cycling) also allows the more inquisitive walker to take notice of their surroundings, spot wildlife, and identify plant-life and geological features.

Just getting out for a short walk in local parks, woodland, or nature spots can help to improve mental health. In fact, many villages, towns, and cities have local walking groups. These are a great way to meet likeminded people and provide opportunities to explore different areas.

There are also more challenging types of walking, such as hill and moorland hiking, and mountaineering. These can encompass everything from short fell walks through to full expeditions with wild camping.

Some popular UK routes can include scrambling, others roped climbing, and the more technical routes a combination of both.

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