Notes from the Trail
Thoughts on Staying Active, Mental Well-Being, and the power of Community
Nature on my Mind
Like many who live in Scotland, I’ve developed a distinct appreciation for its verdant countryside and stunning scenery. From Bass Rock along the John Muir way in East Lothian, to snow-capped Munros in the Cairngorms, to lochside paddling in the Trossachs or cycling through the rolling hills of the Borders, I’ve found solace in staying active while in nature since moving here in early 2021.
No matter the week, I’m always in a better mood on top of a Munro or eating lunch in the Pentlands. Whether solo or with friends, being active in the outdoors (& with a view) has been one of the best things I’ve been able to do for my own mental health and wellbeing.
As someone who moved to a new country in their mid-20s, I’ve found being active outdoors also one of the best ways to meet new friends. I’ve directly benefitted from the outstanding active community of runners, hikers, and cyclists that exists in Scotland. From weekend long bike rides or Munro hikes with friends, to weekly workouts with a local running club, I’ve found many ways to keep my body moving and mind at ease. Even through work, I’ve been able to go kayaking on Loch Lomond, complete my first 100-mile (“Century”) cycle, and my first half marathon (the Great Scottish Half in Glasgow, earlier this month). In the latter two instances, we were also able to raise funds for the local mental health charity SAMH (the Scottish Association for Mental Health).
Climbing for a Cause
Moving to Scotland in early 2021, I wanted to find a way to support my new local community while also engaging in something active with others (once lockdown restrictions had begun to sufficiently ease). For personal reasons, I knew I wanted to support an organisation like SAMH. I found such an opportunity through a group at my employer, Capco.
Every year, a group within Capco Scotland comes together to accomplish a feat of endurance while raising funds as a group for SAMH. This year – in late August – 13 of us were able to successfully summit Ben Nevis together! The brutal combination of rain & wind on the ascent made it rough-going, even for experienced “Munro-baggers”; the camaraderie and dedication of the group meant we were able to safely summit and enjoy a much sunnier descent into Glen Nevis that afternoon.
Not only did our broader community of friends and colleagues manage to raise one pound for every meter of the ascent (1,345m) – we also managed to forge connections and share experiences, far removed from the bustle and stress of Central Belt offices. It’s something I was thrilled to help organise this year, made even better knowing it would support the brilliant work SAMH do for the mental health of all Scots. Even as the days get shorter and the nights longer, I look forward to more days on the trail in the months ahead, with friends new and old!
The Mountains (and trails, and cycle paths) are Calling
If you, like me, find solace and enjoyment by escaping into nature, then you’re not alone! As of the last NatureScot survey in 2018, over 56% of 1100+ respondents surveyed were engaging in outdoor activities at least once a week, and 90%+ of those who did so claim it helped them to “destress, relax, and unwind”. A more recent survey (undertaken two years ago to analyse early-Covid impacts on outdoor activity) suggests up to 70% of Scots were engaging in weekly outdoor activity – those are some busy parks and trails!
If you’ve been looking to support your mental wellbeing and/or get outside more often yourself, and aren’t sure where to begin, there are a number of organisations across Scotland that would be more than happy to have you. From local hillwalking or running groups, to weekend-long trainings offered by Mountaineering Scotland, to cycling meet-ups in Edinburgh or Glasgow, there’s something out there for all interests and all ability levels. I hope to see you out on a trail, road, or path sometime soon!
All the best,
Alex McCollom
Sr. Consultant, Capco.