News & Events

Get a Health Boost Outdoors with Texas Tech Junction

By Daniel Johnson, Section Manager

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. It has now been almost a full year social distancing and limiting personal interactions. While the disease has affected activities for many people, there is still the opportunity to go outside where there are benefits both to physical and mental health.

Studies have shown that levels of anxiety have surged alongside the virus, adding additional stress, even more so among students and teachers. COVID-19 has affected student connection and their social interactions among their peers. As long as basic safety guidelines and practices are followed, people still can enjoy local parks, activities and outdoor facilities.

For those looking to get out of the house, look no further than Junction and the home of the Texas Tech Outdoor Learning Center and Llano River Field Station. Junction captivates visitors of all ages with its pristine spring-fed river, scenic beauty, nature trails and wildlife.

According to research, getting outside can reduce depression and boost one's energy. Even a quick walk out in nature can help the body physically become calmer by reducing heart rate, tension, and stress hormones, putting the body more at ease. Spending time in nature can allow people's brains to focus a new way and return to tasks with a renewed sense of energy. This contact with nature can reduce symptoms of depression, tiredness and low self-esteem.

The Texas Tech Outdoor Learning Center is an extension of the classroom where teachers and students could experience a true outdoor learning experience full of exploration and healthfulness. They offer field trips and an educational experience that is hands-on in the great outdoors. The Llano River Field Station provides a laboratory and classroom environment for undergraduate and graduate students from numerous universities, institutes and public schools.

In a time of increased isolation, what could be a better classroom than the outdoors full of open spaces, fresh air and sunshine?

Learning and being outdoors have shown a positive and significant relationship to increased physical activity. An outdoor education course lends itself to increased physical activity that students see as enjoyable. One of the greatest products of outdoor learning is the reconnection with nature that students experience.

The case for open air and being outdoors relating to education has been made many times over. It is needed even more in times of a viral pandemic. Getting involved in outdoor education has many different benefits for all involved. The Texas Tech University Center at Junction has fostered the idea that frequent outdoor learning experiences lead to better educational outcomes.

Visit www.depts.ttu.edu/junction to view programs and curriculums.