Port Hope encourages residents to get outdoors, take on ‘30x30’ nature challenge

‘It’s time to get back to your senses and make nature a habit’: Ontario Parks

The Municipality of Port Hope is encouraging residents to participate in the ‘Healthy Parks, Healthy People 30x30 Challenge,’ which is a provincial initiative hosted by Ontario Parks and Healthy Parks Healthy People and promotes spending time in nature daily. /Sarah Hyatt photo

By reporter Natalie Hamilton

The Municipality of Port Hope is encouraging residents to take 30.

That entails devoting 30 minutes every day to spend time in nature for 30 days this month.

Port Hope is challenging residents – #PortHope30x30 – to participate locally in the “Healthy Parks, Healthy People 30x30 Challenge,” which is a provincial initiative hosted by Ontario Parks and Healthy Parks Healthy People, running in August.

“This August, take the opportunity to reconnect with nature – and with yourself – by participating in this community-wide initiative designed to make spending time outdoors a daily habit,” the municipality stated.

“Research shows that time in nature can significantly reduce stress, improve mood and support overall well-being. The 30x30 nature challenge is simple – spend 30 minutes in nature every day for 30 days. Whether it’s a walk through the woods, tending to your garden or relaxing in a local park, this challenge is about creating a healthy and lasting connection with the natural world.”

The municipality offers a few ideas to help residents kick off the challenge:

• Take a walk through a local trail or conservation area.

• Sit quietly in the backyard or amidst a balcony garden.

• Visit a park and listen to the sounds of nature.

The purpose of the Ontario Parks’ challenge is to engage people in nature and foster an improved sense of well-being.

“Studies show that being regularly immersed in nature can decrease stress and the scent of fresh pine has been known to reduce depression and anxiety,” noted Ontario Parks. “It’s time to get back to your senses and make nature a habit.”

By accepting the 30x30 challenge, people make a commitment to enjoy nature for 30 minutes daily for 30 days.

“By doing this, you will be creating a nature habit that supports a healthy lifestyle.”

The Ontario Parks 30x30 Challenge runs for the month of August. However, Ontario Parks encourages people to extend their new habit beyond 30 days.

People can join the challenge at any time in August.  

“Time in nature is about getting outside and taking time to notice and connect with the sights and sounds around you … Even a small urban park can be beneficial if you relax and use your senses. Listen for bird songs, breathe fresh air and watch for local wildlife.”

Greenspace can be as close as the neighbourhood park or even in a resident’s own garden.

For a change of scenery, Ontario Parks offers several parks within 100 kilometres of many city centres.

“Ontario Parks are diverse and offer plenty of trails, beaches, breathtaking views and fresh air.”

Participants are encouraged to post their pictures, videos, discoveries and daily nature interactions on social media channels. Connect with Ontario Parks on Facebook or share to X @OntarioParks and use #HPHP and #30x30challenge to share healthy nature habits.