UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Counseling and Psychological Services' (CAPS) newest Nurture in Nature (NiN) trail at the Arboretum was developed with the intention of making it easier for students and community members to access and intentionally connect with nature.
Flourishing is a focus of the University’s Strategic Plan, which aims to cultivate health and wellness of students, faculty and staff. NiN trails were created as a self-directed opportunity for members of the campus community to interact with nature. Research-based benefits of engaging with nature include sleep improvement, increased sense of calm and relaxation, improved mood, enhanced attention and memory, reduced mental fatigue and stress, and a greater sense of meaning, purpose and life satisfaction.
“Nurture in Nature trails are low-risk ways for students, faculty and staff to challenge themselves and try something new that can improve their health,” said Jason Yoder, CAPS clinical service provider, who oversees development of the NiN trails. “With the spring weather coming, it is a perfect time to visit our Nurture in Nature trails.”
Multiple NiN trails are located across Penn State, including at the Sustainability Experience Center, Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State, Stone Valley Recreation Area, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, and the newest trail at the Arboretum. These free trails encourage users to participate in self-guided mindfulness invitations that deepen their connection with the natural environment. Taking a stroll through the new NiN trail and soaking in the scenery at the Arboretum can influence someone’s state of mind and body. There are many ways to interact with the NiN trails, such as journaling thoughts while walking on the trail.
NiN trails offer accessible and ADA-compliant options, and everyone is welcome to explore from dawn to dusk. It is recommended that trail-goers review the Know Before You Go information on the CAPS NiN website. Nurture in Nature trails are a great opportunity to try solo or with a small group of friends.
A virtual NiN trail option also is newly available to increase access across all Penn State campuses. In the video, viewers are able to visualize the main points on the trail, engage with the invitations, and experience the sounds of the Arboretum.
More information about trails can be found on the Student Affairs Nurture in Nature webpage. To share feedback after experiencing the NiN trails, complete the NiN feedback form.