The implementation of a 30x30 nature challenge among students attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

[摘要] The purpose of the project was to implement a 30x30 Nature Challenge among studentsattending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, during the Spring 2018 semester. The overallgoal was to increase nature relatedness, perceived social support, and physical activity amongchallenge participants. Participants were challenged to spend 30 minutes outside per day for atotal of 30 days. During the challenge, motivational emails were sent out each week as remindersto each participant. College students face a plethora of stressors which can result in feelings ofloneliness and isolation, especially with an increased use of technology. The journey throughcollege is full of changes and transitions, which can trigger mental health issues. Research hasshown that experiences in the natural world reduce stress and increase feelings of belonging andhappiness. The current project focused on implementing and motivating students to get activeoutdoors with their peers. The challenge was marketed via campus resources and through variouschannels in association with the Wellness and Health Advocacy Division. The pilot programutilized a pre-test and post-test to determine any change in participant perception and behaviors.Overall, the participants in the 30x30 Nature Challenge showed an increase in nature relatedness,increase in perceived social support, and an increase in physical activity. The results of the pilotprogram can be utilized to implement future, larger scale 30x30 Nature Challenges on campus.

[发布机构] University of Wisconsin

[关键词] Public health