Paddling Life founder Eugene Buchanan is no stranger to getting outside, and dragging his kids along with him. In face, one of this books, “Outdoor Parents Outdoor Kids,” goes into just that, often with paddle, bike, skis and other gear in tow.
In a recent story in Men’s Journal, he takes it a step further, espousing upon a term coined by researcher Richard Louv in his best-sellng book “Last Child in the Woods”: Nature Deficit Disorder.
Read full story here:
https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/family-adventure
In his article, Buchanan emphasizes the crucial role of family adventures and outdoor experiences in the lives of children and young adults. Buchanan begins by sharing his own experiences during a five-day river trip with his daughters, Brooke and Casey. He highlights the healing power of nature and how these adventures have played a significant role in their lives.
The article takes a poignant turn as Buchanan recounts a tragic incident that occurred in his family. His daughter, Brooke, and her boyfriend, Nick, were involved in a car accident in New Zealand, resulting in Nick’s untimely death and Brooke’s hospitalization. This heartbreaking event shook their family to its core, making the healing aspects of nature even more evident.
During a subsequent family river trip, Brooke brought along a group of close friends who had shared mountain town experiences with her and Nick. The trip provided an opportunity to honor Nick’s memory and find solace in nature’s embrace. The group engaged in typical river revelry, fostering connections and healing together. They held a meaningful ceremony at Rippling Brook, emphasizing the therapeutic power of nature during times of loss.
Buchanan discusses the concerning trend of “Nature Deficit Disorder” among children, highlighting the decline in youth participation in outdoor activities. He cites studies linking the lack of outdoor exposure to issues such as attention disorders, depression, and childhood obesity. He underscores the importance of fostering a connection between children and the outdoors, not only for their physical and mental health but also for the preservation of these experiences for future generations.
Buchanan reflects on his own upbringing and the encouragement he received to play outside, citing the benefits of outdoor activities, from building rich, lifelong memories to promoting a healthier lifestyle. He reminisces about his family’s outdoor adventures and the enduring impact they’ve had on his children.
The article emphasizes the idea that bringing kids along on outdoor escapades may require effort, but the rewards are immeasurable. Buchanan offers resources and advice for parents seeking to overcome the inertia of indoor activities and immerse their children in nature. He believes that being outdoors allows children to tap into a different part of themselves, fostering creativity and a connection with the natural world.
In the end, Buchanan’s article underscores the timeless truth that outdoor adventures and family connections are essential for personal growth, healing, and the development of well-rounded individuals. He believes that Nick, who has passed away, would wholeheartedly agree that prioritizing outdoor experiences has played a vital role in shaping the lives of their family and friends.
