_An Edhat Reader
By Healthy People Healthy Trails Initiative,
Lace up your shoes and get ready to explore! In April, we celebrate Healthy People Healthy Trails Month, encouraging everyone to embrace the outdoors and experience the countless benefits of walking, hiking, and exploring nature trails.
Healthy People Healthy Trails Month is a call to action for individuals and families to get active and connect with the natural world. Studies have shown that outdoor time can significantly improve physical and mental health, reducing stress, boosting mood, and enhancing cognitive function. The celebration is organized by the Healthy People, Healthy Trails initiative-a program led by CenCal Health, City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department, Sansum Clinic, Healthy Lompoc Coalition, Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, and Santa Barbara County Trails Council.
“One of the best ways to improve overall health and decrease chronic disease is through small behavior changes like getting outdoors and being physically active. Getting outdoors enhances both our physical and mental wellness,” said Dr. Josephine Preciado, Chief Medical Officer for the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department Health Care Centers. “We hope everyone will take advantage of the events during the month and continue these healthy habits. Remember, starting small, even just 5 minutes daily, and working towards a personal goal can have long-lasting health effects.”
Healthy People Healthy Trails Month supports fun events, an active lifestyle, healthy living, and time in nature. It is a platform for increasing awareness of the environment, outdoor experiences, cross-agency collaboration, and developing a compendium of outdoor activities that can be easily found online in one place.
Events in different parts of Santa Barbara County center around the region’s abundant natural resources and freely accessible parks and open spaces that play a central role in our community’s quality of life, health, and economic well-being.
“Our community is fortunate to have a wealth of beautiful trails that offer something for everyone, from gentle paths perfect for a leisurely stroll to challenging hikes that provide breathtaking views,” said Otis Calef, President of the Trails Council. “Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail waiting to be explored.”
Join the Movement!
This Healthy People Healthy Trails Month, we encourage everyone to step outside and explore the natural beauty that surrounds us. Here are some ways you can participate:
- Find a trail near you: Visit https://bit.ly/hpht-month to discover a variety of trails suited to your interests and abilities.
- Plan a hike with friends and family: Spending time in nature is a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
- Share your experiences: Use #HealthyPeopleHealthyTrails on social media to inspire others and show your love for the outdoors.
- Volunteer your time: Support your local trails by volunteering for trail maintenance or cleanup activities.
Let’s make Healthy People Healthy Trails Month a success! By embracing the outdoors and enjoying the vast network of trails available, we can create a healthier and happier community for all.
Events Calendar
Healthy People Healthy Trails Month events are typically free of charge and easily accessed. The online events calendar showcases walking, running, riding, and other outdoor activities. Parks departments, healthcare providers, and community organizations sponsor over 40 events. The index for April includes activities that will interest families and people of all ages. For more information, visit the Healthy People Healthy Trails website at https://bit.ly/hpht-month
Event Sponsors: To add your organization’s events to the April calendar or correct a listing, you can write an email to: moreinfo@healthypeoplehealthytrails.org
What is the Healthy People Healthy Trails Initiative? Healthy People Healthy Trails is a Countywide collaborative working with healthcare providers and land/recreation organizations to encourage and support community members’ public health and welfare by aiding and increasing equitable access to nature and enjoying trails, parks, and open spaces space for all. Being physically active and moving helps us prevent and manage chronic illnesses. It makes us happier and allows us to do better at school and work. It builds stronger communities and keeps the economy healthy, too. According to the American Heart Association, adults should receive 150 minutes per week (two and a half hours) of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as walking, hiking, jogging, or cycling. Kids 6 to 17 should get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. In addition, recent research shows that exposure to nature and exercise outdoors has significant health benefits, including improved mental health, reduced stress, and lower blood pressure. However, over 75 percent of American adults do not meet these guidelines. Santa Barbara County adults also fall short of meeting them. We all need to move more—and sit less—more often. That’s what Healthy People Healthy Trails is all about. Founded in 2015, Healthy People Healthy Trails is sponsored by CenCal Health, the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department, Sansum Clinic, Healthy Lompoc Coalition, Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, and Santa Barbara County Trails Council.
