Late last year BC Parks Foundation launched the PaRx Project. Canada’s first large-scale program, formally allowing health care professionals to prescribe nature as medicine. The program is now being rolled out in other provinces and territories. As we start to experience warmer spring weather in British Columbia, it’s the perfect time to renew your commitment to getting outside.
The premise is quite simple. Spend at least 2 hours a week in nature, 20+ minutes at a time. Research shows that spending time in nature can result in better health and well-being including, reduced stress, increased happiness, and improved heart health. Kids also experience positive benefits such as less anxiety and depression, higher test scores and graduation rates.
Speak to your health-care provider about positive changes you can make to your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of nature. You can also win prizes from PaRX. Every patient who fills a nature prescription from their health care provider will be entered into monthly draws.
Bowen Island is an ideal location to spend time in nature whether on land or water. Only 20 minutes by ferry from Horseshoe Bay, it feels like you’re fully removed from the rush of the city. A wide variety of trails offer excursions for seriously active hikers and those who prefer shorter walks.
On the water, Bowen Island Sea Kayaking tours and rentals are available daily April – Oct, supporting both novice and experienced paddlers. New to kayaking? Try a 3-hour Shoreline tour where our guide can show you the ropes and the sights. Prefer to explore on your own? A 3-hour kayak or SUP rental will give you lots of time to explore the island’s coastline.
No matter what you do with your time outside, the message is clear. Spending time in nature is good for you, so get out there and enjoy it.