Outdoor sport is all the rage, and it’s really good for our mental and physical health. This strange time of year makes us want to be immersed in nature even more. Here’s an article on the benefits of outdoor activities and the variety of natural games to be found in Occitanie.
Sport plein air, the benefits of outdoor activities!
By definition and in theory sport does our bodies good and releases stored-up stress. Sporting activity regulates our hormones, eliminates toxins, improves our appetite and contributes to better sleep. We also improve our muscular girdle, which has a direct impact on our dynamism and self-confidence. It’s like a virtuous circle. Outdoor sport adds an extra dimension to these proven scientific facts. Nature, I’d say, acts as a kind of catalyst for all these benefits. A catalyst that acts exponentially in our bodies and brains. A factor which considerably reduces the production of cortisol(a hormone released by the body in times of stress, and which exhausts it over time).
When you make an effort while enjoying a beautiful view of a landscape, the effort itself is immediately digested by the body. The feeling of tiredness is therefore postponed, as you interact with external stimuli that capture your attention. (Wind noise, bird whistle, smell of surrounding vegetation…)
Effort becomes a game and a source of personal gratification.
Effort in the great outdoors is a game without competition…
We add the dimension of play to outdoor sports. Playing with our companions and with ourselves. So there’s no competition with others, just the feeling of wanting to push your own limits. It’s a search for personal satisfaction. Climbing is a complete sport. It acts on every muscle in the body and releases extraordinary sensations. It’s a game of finding the right route, of finding the best body position to negotiate a difficult passage.
the increased exertion associated with the great outdoors…
It’s a game that elevates us both on the rock and in our outlook on life. Outdoor sports such as climbing, via-ferrata and canyoning always involve a degree of controlled risk. This notion of controlled risk is very interesting, and allows our bodies and minds to step out of their comfort zone.
It’s an action that allows us to find our innermost selves, freeing us from the many psychological barriers we impose on ourselves. Everyone can do it!
Occitanie is a particularly rich playground for outdoor sports!
Our region is full of wonderful places to discover, especially through outdoor activities.
Around Montpellier, you’ll be lucky enough to find some major climbing sites (St Guilhem le désert, the cliffs of the Thauracle Joncas, St bauzille de Montmel, l’Hortus, le pic st loupClaret etc.)
We also have two magnificent via-ferrata located 35 minutes from Montpellier. The via-ferrata du Thaurac in St Bauzille de Putois and the via du Vidourle in Saint Sériès.
For the more sporty among you, you can test your mettle on an adventure day at Pic st loup. The lines written above in this article reflect particularly well the hike-recall activity. A skilful blend of effort, concentration and sensations…
Finally, in spring and summer, we also offer a range of canyoning courses. They range from beginners to experienced sportsmen! The closest to Montpellier is the Canyon du diable in St Guilhem le désert 35 minutes away!
Did you like this article? Find out about all our supervised outdoor activities in Occitanie and near Montpellier! more information click here
