More people than ever are taking to the slopes.
That's according to a news release heralding the first annual National Ski and Snowboard Day (next Friday).
鈥淥utdoor recreation is widely recognized as a natural mood booster because of its powerful impact on both physical and mental health,鈥 psychologist Christine Courbasson of the Canadian Mental Health Association says.听
鈥淭ime spent in nature has been proven to ease mental distress, and whether it鈥檚 walking, running, skiing, or snowboarding, outdoor activities contribute to overall psychological well-being,鈥 Courbasson says.听
National Ski and Snowboard Day, as proclaimed by the Canadian Ski Council, is aimed at getting more Canadians onto their local mountain resorts.听
People are encouraged to submit photos, videos, and reminiscences connected to skiing and snowboarding on various social media platforms, tagging @goskiinggosnowboarding for a chance to win various prizes. Submissions can also be emailed to socialmedia@skicanada.org
According to the Canadian Ski Council:听
- 21 per cent of Canadians downhill ski, snowboard, or cross-country ski
- participation in snow sports has risen 25 per cent since the pandemic听
- snow sports are becoming more diverse, with more than 20 per cent of participants in many Canadian regions identifying as members of visible minority groups听
- skiing and snowboarding generate $4.4 billion in economic impact across Canada, and the industry employs more than 100,000 people.听
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