Recharge Treks Support Mental, Physical Wellness

Students at NC State University face a lot of stressors that may have a negative effect on their physical and emotional well being. Nathan Williams, Assistant Director of Outdoor Adventures, sought a new way to help students deal with these issues. Williams found what he was looking for in Recharge Treks.

“Recharge Treks are a collaboration between University Recreation and the Counseling Center, it came from thinking about the needs of the students at NC State”

By partnering with the Counseling Center, Outdoor Adventures will focus on both mental and physical wellness. Recharge Treks will utilize nature as a way to de-stress and reconnect. The first Recharge Trek, Canoeing and Meditation at Kerr Lake, will be held on Saturday, September 24.

“Sometimes there is a stigma around seeking mental health assistance, and also I think there’s a stigma about going to the gym sometimes.” Williams thinks that Recharge Treks will attract students that may not have attempted to access mental or physical health assistance in the past, in part due to these preconceived notions.  “We hope by offering something that is a little bit of both we might reach folks who might not necessarily feel comfortable making an appointment with a counselor, or even coming into the Rec Center to work out.”

Recharge Treks address common issues of students at NC State including stress, over-commitment, and a need for better communication skills. Williams believes that a powerful response to these problems can be found in the great outdoors.  “There’s a huge body of research in eco-psychology about the de-stressing nature of getting outside and participating in outdoor recreation,” Williams says. Canoeing, Meditation, and a time for discussion will all work through nature in order to make the experience as impactful as possible.

Williams also stressed the fact that this trip is open and intended for all students. No prior experience is necessary for the canoeing or the meditation, and everything from transportation to lunch is included in the trip. Canoeing and Meditation at Kerr Lake will cost $10 for students. Students can register at the Outdoor Adventures Equipment Rental Center located on the first floor of the Carmichael Rec Center, and registration ends September 21 at noon. Recharge Treks will help the student body continue to strive towards their mental and physical wellness goals.