Reducing Stress Through Recreation

As many of us know, living in the North, we face unique challenges that can impact our mental health. The long winters, limited access to services, and the pressures of daily life can contribute to feelings of stress and isolation. However, recreation is a powerful and accessible tool that can help ease these feelings.

Regular physical activity is more than just a way to stay in shape—it's a natural and effective way to manage stress and support mental wellness. Whether it's the calming rhythm of a walk around the community, a quiet yoga session, or time spent out on the Land, recreation gives our minds and bodies what they need to feel balanced and strong.

The Benefits of Movement

When we move our bodies, we're doing more than strengthening muscles and improving heart health—we're also releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain, like endorphins and serotonin. These natural mood boosters help reduce feelings of anxiety, lift our spirits, and even improve sleep. And when we sleep better, we cope better.

​The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines, developed by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP), emphasize that regular physical activity is a key factor in reducing stress and enhancing mental health. Engaging in consistent physical activity can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety and depression, and better overall mental well-being.

For adults in the NWT, the Guidelines recommended engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. If you’re having trouble getting this much activity in, think about joining a physical activity program such as Walk to Tuk, where you have your teammates to motivate you to keep consistent. 

The Healing Power of the Land

For many Northerners, the Land is more than a physical place—it's a source of identity, healing, and strength. Spending time on the Land, whether hunting, fishing, berry picking, or just sitting quietly, has deep mental health benefits. Nature naturally slows us down and reminds us of what really matters.

More than just a way to connect with the Land, spending time in nature has a real and immediate impact on stress and anxiety. According to NWT Health and Social Services, spending time in nature can improve mood, reduce stress and depression, and provide your body with the very important vitamin D from sunlight.

Making Time for Recreation

At the NWTRPA, we believe in the power of recreation to build strong, healthy communities. When we move, play, and spend time outdoors, we're not just taking care of our bodies—we're supporting our mental and emotional well-being too.

So next time you're feeling overwhelmed, remember: your body already knows what to do. Step outside, stretch, breathe, and reconnect—with yourself and the world around you.