New This Spring: WWU Outdoor Wellness Program

The Counseling and Wellness Center is excited to partner with the AS Outdoor Center and Recreation Management and Leadership Program to offer Western students an opportunity to build positive peer connections and get outside this Spring. The Outdoor Wellness Program pairs Western students with peer mentors who will create weekly nature-based experiences designed to boost students’ mental wellness. “This is an easy way for students to make time for themselves, experience the benefits of time in nature, and have some fun,” said Lindsay Poynter, Senior Instructor of Recreation Management and Leadership. 

The program is the product of Ben Crandall, a Fairhaven senior, who partnered with Counseling and Wellness Center staff to offer the Outdoor Wellness Program for students looking to enhance their mental well-being and resilience.

“Coming out of COVID isolation, these practices are all the more needed and the Outdoor Wellness Program is an opportunity for students to practice self-care and connect with resources along the way,” said Crandall. 

Nature connection has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being and focus.

"The Outdoor Wellness Program is a perfect example of bringing together essential elements of well-being - physical activity, social connection, and the natural environment. The Western community is fortunate to have this resource available and I would highly recommend that students consider this opportunity spring quarter,” said Chris Edwards, Assistant Director and Coordinator of Outreach and Health Promotion for the Counseling and Wellness Center. 

Students interested in participating in the Outdoor Wellness Program can sign up here through May 4. Questions? Email Ben Crandall at crandab2@wwu.edu. 

The Counseling and Wellness Center helps students discover their unique pathways to wellness through workshops, outreach programs, clinical services, consultation, and referral. Follow our @BeWellWWU Instagram account, sign up for our weekly BeWellWWU newsletter, and visit our website at cwc.wwu.edu for more information. For disability accommodations, please contact cwc@wwu.edu. Western is an equal opportunity institution.