Nature sports, health and ageing: the value of euphoria

Abstract

Using autoethnographic approaches, I analyse ageing trajectories in 10 adventurous outdoor nature sports using boards, paddles, sails and wings in water, snow and air. Skill and risk are intermediate. Training, experience, and safety precautions are required, but risk of death is low. Chronic pain levels increase with age, and capabilities and challenges faced decline. These are offset, however, by greater attention and appreciation of natural surroundings. Of particular significance, enjoyment and opportunities for euphoria persist despite ageing, and euphoria can temporarily override chronic pain, stress and fatigue. In wealthy urbanised nations, chronic pain, and poor mental and emotional health, impose increasing social and economic costs as lifespans increase. By providing opportunities for euphoria as well as exercise, adventurous outdoor nature sports can make substantial contributions to the physical, mental and social health of older individuals, reducing the costs of aged care. Therefore, health policies should encourage lifelong nature sports.