This article was written by Jennifer Scott, who is a Life Coach. She can be contacted by email at [email protected]. You can also visit her website at spiritfinder.org for more useful information pertaining to mental health
With miles of Lakeshore, thousands of acres of rolling hills, and some of the most impressive fall foliage in the United States, Pennsylvania is a nature-lover’s paradise. A varied and beautiful landscape makes the North Eastern gem a great getaway for anyone seeking to improve their mental health and boost their mood. Whether your interest is hiking, history, farms, or forest, this Commonwealth has you covered.
A Natural Wonder
Pennsylvania is known for its many parks and nature preserves. Canoe Creek State Park, for example, is 958 acres of the most majestic and mature forest in the state. A visit here offers ample opportunities for mood-boosting physical activities including hiking, biking, and boating. Visitors to Marsh Creek State Park in Downingtown can explore 1,700 acres of unspoiled land and participate in the park’s many scheduled events.
Encompassing a four county region, the Pocono Mountains boast 150 lakes and a number of historic towns. There are dozens of independently owned cabins and bed-and-breakfasts that make for a perfect mountain retreat to rest and recharge. A weekend getaway will give you the opportunity to soak in the scenery and step away from technology, which is essential for good mental health in today’s ever-tech-reliant society.
America’s History
In addition to being the home of the Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania’s landscape is dotted with hundreds of historical sites. One of the most popular and intriguing is the Eckley Miners Village Museum. As one of the original patch towns, this 19th century homesteading village offers a glimpse into the daily life of miners from the 1850s. Key structures on the property include the 1861 Immaculate Conception Church and the three original slate picker homes scattered throughout the campus. There is perhaps no other location more famous in the state than the Gettysburg National Military Park. The park offers visitors access to the Library and Research Center, which will give any history buff hours upon hours of intrigue.
An Amazing “Great Lake”
Lake Erie may be one of the smallest of the five Great Lakes, but it’s big on beauty and comes complete with its own eerie superstitions. It’s rumored that Lake Erie is home to a distant cousin of the Loch Ness Monster. Southbay Bessie, as the snakelike creature has been christened, was first spotted in the 19th century but has failed to make a confirmed appearance. Several wildlife preserves, including Springfield Township in western Pennsylvania, provide Lake Erie visitors unbridled access to the area’s superb scenery.
Importance of Time Away
It’s very easy to feel like we’re being suffocated by our daily obligations. The associated stress and anxiety can lead to irritability, anxiety, and depression. This can affect every aspect of our lives, including physical health and relationships. Self-care is essential to keeping our mental health in check and making sure our brains and bodies stay in sync. Science has proven that time away has positive mental and physical health benefits. Many experts theorize that vacations can help prevent heart disease, improve workplace productivity, result in a better night’s sleep, and significantly reduce stress. The University of Vienna concluded that vacations may actually improve overall well-being, even if only for a short time.
There are few ways more effective at helping us get in touch with ourselves than stepping away from the clutter of our everyday lives. But whether you’re leaving on a last-minute weekend excursion or a very well-deserved week away, take the time to research your desired vacation location.
