aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Returning This Spring: WWU Outdoor Wellness Program 

The Counseling and Wellness Center is excited to partner with the AS Outdoor Center and Recreation Management and Leadership Program to offer Western students an opportunity to build positive peer connections and get outside this Spring. The Outdoor Wellness Program pairs Western students with peer mentors who will create weekly nature-based experiences designed to boost students’ mental wellness. “This is an easy way for students to make time for themselves, experience the benefits of time in nature, and have some fun,” said Lindsay Poynter, senior instructor of Recreation Management and Leadership. 

The program is the product of Ben Crandall, WWU Recreation alumnus, who partnered with Counseling and Wellness Center staff to offer the Outdoor Wellness Program for students looking to enhance their mental well-being and resilience. 

“Coming out of COVID isolation, these practices are all the more needed and the Outdoor Wellness Program is an opportunity for students to practice self-care and connect with resources along the way,” said Crandall. 

Nature connection has been shown to improve mental well-being and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. The Outdoor Wellness Program is a fun way to experience connection, explore the beauty of our surrounding area, and create time to self-reflect.  

Students interested in participating in the Outdoor Wellness Program are encouraged to email Cheyenne Fonda at fondac@wwu.edu.  

The Counseling and Wellness Center helps students discover their unique pathways to wellness through workshops, outreach programs, clinical services, consultation, and referral. Follow our @BeWellWWU Instagram account, sign up for our weekly BeWellWWU newsletter, and visit our website at cwc.wwu.edu for more information. For disability accommodations, please contact cwc@wwu.edu. Western is an equal opportunity institution.