As final exams approach, students at The University of Southern Mississippi are being reminded of the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.
According to the American Psychological Association’s article Nurtured by Nature (April 1, 2020), time spent in natural environments is linked to cognitive benefits, improved mood, and overall emotional well-being.
Spring at USM brings blooming flowers and active wildlife, creating a vibrant outdoor environment. Students have access to multiple campus locations that provide peaceful study areas, including the water fountain near the front of campus and benches along the Bruce and Virginia Wilgus Fitness Trail, which begins at the Payne Center.
Mark Crager, director of campus recreation, shared several opportunities for students to engage in outdoor activities without leaving campus. One of those spaces is Pride Field.
“We open Pride Field every night, Monday through Thursday, 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM for people to come out and do open recreation,” Crager said.
He noted that students often use the field to throw frisbees, play football, or simply relax.
“Spirit Park has a really good setup now,” he added. “It’s lit at night [and] as soon as you come out the door [of the Thad Cochran Center] there’s a box that’s free for students.”
The recreation resource box, located outside the Thad Cochran Center, provides free access to sports equipment such as footballs, baseball gloves, and soccer balls. Items can be rented for up to 24 hours.
In addition to individual recreation, students can participate in intramural sports through IMLeagues.com/USM. Offerings include flag football, soccer, and softball. Students may also create new recreational groups if a desired sport is not already available.
