Physical and Mental Health Benefits of White Water Rafting in California

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With almost 40 million residents, California is the most populous state in the United States of America. It is surrounded by the states of Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Baja California, and the Pacific Ocean. The Golden State boasts of being the world’s trendsetter in entertainment, economy, communication, innovation, and popular culture. 

Apart from the usual beaches, museums, and Disney attractions, visitors in the state can also enjoy numerous outdoor activities that stimulate the senses and get the adrenaline going. From island camping and hiking to backpacking and rock climbing, the Golden State’s diverse typography has something to offer to everyone.
 
Nonetheless, if you want to experience an epic adventure that is unlike any other, you should include white water rafting in California to your bucket list ASAP! Beyond the thrill and excitement of navigating an inflatable raft in a tumultuous river, this incredible water activity offers the following physical and mental health benefits that will make the trip worthwhile:

Reduces Blood Pressure

Studies showed that outdoor physical activities like white water rafting could significantly reduce blood pressure since it is an effective form of exercise. It also helps that doing this outdoor sport allows you to be surrounded by amazing flora and fauna. From lush greens to crisp, clear water, you will undoubtedly have your fill of the beauty of nature when you go river rafting.
 
Note that lowered blood pressure can lead to a long life. In one long term study conducted by an instructor at Harvard Medical School, it was found that reducing blood pressure significantly lowers the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death in the country, by as much as 25 percent. 
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Lowers Risk of Cancer

​Apart from reducing the risk of heart ailments, white water rafting, along with other leisure-time physical activities, can also lower the risk of certain types of cancer. A 2016 study revealed that moderate and vigorous physical activity is linked to a lower incidence of 13 types of cancers, such as esophageal adenocarcinoma, liver, kidney, lung, myeloma, head and neck, and breast cancers, among others.

Relieves Stress and Anxiety

​While all forms of exercise generally help in improving mood and lowering stress levels, numerous studies found that these mental health benefits are further enhanced when physical activities are done in natural environments rather than indoors. When you go white water rafting in California, you will have the chance to smell the trees, feel the refreshing water on your face, and savor all the lovely things nature has to offer.
 
The physical movements you carry out while rafting, coupled with the calming scenes of nature, can help you overcome stress and anxiety, unlike anything else. No wonder white water rafting has been found effective in reducing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD and other traumas. 

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Improves Self-Esteem

​The effects of outdoor sports like white water rafting have been widely studied, and a majority of them highlighted the positive impact of such activities on self-esteem, given that such tasks require overcoming challenges. White water rafting can be intimidating, especially when you focus on the wild rapids.
 
When you get over the fear and finish the ride, you will feel a surge of pride for accomplishing such a challenging task. This memory will give you a confidence boost to continue moving forward whenever you encounter something difficult in your daily life.
 
Given the many benefits of white water rafting in California to your overall wellbeing, it is clear that this activity is not just about having fun. As such, make sure to steer clear of the usual theme parks and theaters in your next visit to the Golden State, and call a reputable white-water rafting company instead, for a more physically and mentally satisfying trip.