Winter Volunteer Tips 

Beat the Winter Blues: As daylight is shorter, the weather is colder, many start to feel the effects. "Research really highlights the fact that nature, just by its design, promotes wellbeing in physical, mental, emotional and social health," Scott Hall, University of Dayton professor and clinical mental health counseling program coordinator, says. "Lot of things are happening in nature we're not even aware of that encourage our wellbeing." he added. Hall teaches a class on ecotherapy, which he said has become "a real hot topic" and, in his private counseling practice, advises clients to spend time in a space they identify as nature.  

The healing effects of nature include:  

-Reduces Stress 

-Enhances Creativity 

-Cultivates Gratitude 

-Eases Fears 

-Increases Productivity 

-Improves Mood 

"You can experience a curative effect by just 20 minutes in nature," Hall said, adding that filling your life with more nature can be as simple as getting a houseplant - or being aware of nearby parks.  A handful of the many other ways nature makes humans healthier, with some of the scientific support, can be found in the full article here.  Perfect way to beat the winter blues is by getting out and getting involved!  

Dress for the Weather: Cold weather is here and you want to be prepared.  Whether you are enjoying time with family or coming out to volunteer at one of the MetroParks, you will want to "dress for the weather".  A simple tip to dress for the cold is to wear layers! Our recreation team tells us to start with insulating fabrics and use a final layer of protective fabrics.  A definite tip is to avoid cotton! Learn more here.  

Check Your Email and the Website: Don't forget to check your email for potential volunteer opportunity cancellations and delays. You can also check the metroparks.org website for the latest information on park closures and delays: Alerts, Closures, & Construction | Five Rivers MetroParks.

 We look forward to seeing you this winter in the parks! 

Volunteer Services is available if you have questions or need assistance with Get Connected.

Contact us at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or call #937-275-7275 and ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator.

Return to the Volunteer Blog here.