Following Covid and lockdowns, many people suffered from long stretches of isolation. As a result, the importance of mental health has once again been brought to the forefront of our minds. Now, with longer nights setting in and poorer weather ahead, the autumn and winter can be a difficult time for anyone struggling with their mental health.

Mental Health and the Outdoors

When Lee Simpson, founder of Keswick Adventures, was growing up, he spent a lot of time in the outdoors with his father, climbing trees and camping. As he got older, he continued discovering more ways to enjoy the natural environment through kayaking, caving, rock climbing and more. It didn’t take long for him to realise how much being outside boosted his mood and his mental wellbeing.

After travelling the word, experiencing the natural landscapes of almost every continent, he moved to Keswick in the Lake District. It was here that he set up Keswick Adventures.

Though the company mainly aimed at providing visitors and locals with good quality, safe and exciting outdoor adventure activities, there was also an element of health and wellbeing. Ghyll scrambling or canoeing are amazing activities to experience, but the added benefits were something Lee was keen to promote. It was important to him that everyone left one of their activities feeling good. He wanted everyone to feel they had having achieved something, experienced the countryside, and boosted their dopamine levels (the “happy hormone”).

Supporting Mental Health at Keswick Adventures

Elsewhere in his life, which includes working as a firefighter, Lee has supported colleagues and young people to get through difficult periods in their lives. By coaching them to refocus and visualise, introducing them to outdoor sports and activities, and lending an ear, he has combined his skills and passions to help many people.

At Keswick Adventures, we want to continue supporting the mental health and wellbeing of everyone who comes through our doors. We can provide bespoke day and weekend retreats for adults, young people and children. By getting them into the beautiful Lake District countryside, teaching them physical and mental skills, and providing them with an opportunity to express themselves, we can help them focus on their mental wellbeing. The combined benefit of the outdoors, physical activity, and an opportunity to spend time together as a group really does work wonders.

If you would like to find out more bout our Mental Health and Wellbeing Retreats, please get in touch today.