Brotherhood on the Road: Experiencing the Benefits of a Chapter RVTrip

By: Bro. Dexter Egleston

Are you over it? Are you looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health while enjoying the great outdoors? If so, you might want to consider taking the chapter RV trip this summer. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the study of how nature affects the brain and its benefits on human health and well-being (Hartig, 2014). This "soft science" has now become a hot topic as more and more people are discovering the transformative power of spending time in nature. This article will explore the latest research on brains-on-nature and how it relates to the health and wellness benefits of the chapter RV trip. We'll also delve into the importance of brotherhood and spending time in nature together, and how it can improve our overall well-being.

In the middle of the 20th century, studying the effects of nature on the brain was considered a "soft science" and wasn't given much importance in the medical world (Kaplan, 1989). Instead, pharmaceutical companies and modern medicine focused more on genetics and chemistry, which were seen as more objective and measurable areas of research. Because of this, the study of brains in nature became less popular, and there was less money for research in this area. But, as we've learned in recent years, we shouldn't underestimate how nature affects the brain and body. More people are interested in this topic now that it is becoming clear that genes are affected by their environment and that the number of people with obesity, depression, and anxiety is going up. In fact, many scientists and researchers now say it's important to study how nature affects the brain because it has been shown to have a big effect on our mental and physical health (van den Berg, 2003). It's clear that brains-on-nature research shouldn't be thought of as a "soft science" or pushed to the side. Instead, it is essential for learning about human health and well-being. By recognizing how important it is to study how nature affects the brain and putting more resources into this area of research, we can learn more about the benefits of spending time in nature and use this information to make our lives better.

Are you ready for an adventure with your brothers? Consider attending the Chapter RV Trip to Lake Parris! This trip is not your average camping experience. Your wife or significant other need not worry, as this will not be a roughing-it experience (unless you prefer to camp in a tent). We intend to have fun, relaxation, and group activities in style. In essence, we will be “Glamping.” Nowadays, renting an RV is as easy as renting a hotel room. Moreover, when selecting an RV to rent, many RVs have an option for delivery and setup at the campsite.” Two popular websites for renting RVs are RVshare.com and Outdoorsy.com. Be sure to choose from the various trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers, not a mobile home (unless you want to pick it up and drive it yourself). Each RV listing has several photos that show the interior and exterior of the RV. Seriously, if you have never experienced a modern RV, they come with all the amenities of a hotel room or Airbnb. While the length and sleeping capacity varies, most RVs will have a master bedroom, full kitchen, couch and/or table (either of which converts to a full-size bed), bathroom with a shower, TV, and many layouts have two to four single, bunk bed in the back. Importantly, the RV campsites at the Lake Perris SRA list a maximum RV size of 33 feet. While the sites can sometimes accommodate trailers a couple of feet bigger, it's best to get an RV that’s no longer than 33 feet.

Now, let’s discuss the Lake Perris State Recreational Area (SRA) campground where we will be “Glamping.” The campground is fairly close to the various areas where Brothers in the ZSL chapter reside. Approximate travel time is Temecula/Murrieta (25 minutes); north county San Diego (45 minutes), central San Diego (1 and 1/2 hours), and south county (2 hours). Each RV site has electricity and freshwater connections, as well as a connection to drain grey water (sink and shower). These sites do not have blackwater drainage connections, but the RV will store the black water (sewage), which the owner will dump upon retrieving the RV. You should only consider picking up an RV and towing it yourself, if you are experienced in towing large recreational vehicles.

It's an opportunity to forget about planning, commuting, waiting in lines, and paying bills. Let’s unplug and spend quality time with our families and each other. There are many things to see and do while at Lake Perris SRA, which is situated between Moreno Valley and Perris. Consider enjoying a welcome respite from the summer heat and the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the popular activities include hiking, biking, waterskiing, boating, jet skiing, fishing, swimming, horseback riding, camping, and picnicking. Brotherhood can be strengthened, and health can be improved by taking a trip outside together. The benefits of spending time in nature on the brain have already been discussed, and they include a boost to creativity, lower stress levels, and an overall better disposition (White, 2019). The chapter RV trip will be an unforgettable experience for all who attend, as it combines the healing powers of nature with the bonding power of brotherhood. So, load up the car and get ready for a bonding experience that won’t take you far from home. Please search your email for “Zeta Sigma Lambda Fraternal Glamping Trip.” It provides detailed information concerning the trip including specific RV sites we are asking Brothers to reserve.

How can you obtain additional information? Just email either Brother L. Marcel Stewart or myself, Brother Dexter Egleston. We will be the host campsites. You can reach us at: Lmarcelstewart@gmail.com and degleston14@gmail.com. We’re happy to answer any questions BIG or small. We know that this will be a new experience for some and we want to ensure that you have all of the information you need to secure your RV campsite, rent your RV and plan for a wonderful outing. Lookout for an email in May, detailing suggested items to bring and a schedule of group activities and meals.

In conclusion, the growing body of research on the benefits of spending time in nature has made it clear that we need to prioritize getting outside and enjoying the natural world. The Lake Parris RV Trip for the Chapter provides an incredible opportunity to do just that. By disconnecting from the stresses of everyday life and immersing ourselves in nature, we can reduce stress, boost our mood, and enhance cognitive function. Don't miss out on the chance to strengthen your bond with your brothers while also improving your health and well-being (Joye, 2015). Join us on the Chapter RV Trip to Lake Parris and experience the numerous benefits of spending time in nature. Take action now to prioritize your health and make memories that will last a lifetime. We can't wait to see you there!

Works Cited

Hartig, T. M. (2014). Nature and Health. Annual Review of Public Health, 35, 207-228.

Joye, Y. &. (2015). An exploratory study into the effects of extraordinary nature on emotions, mood, and prosociality. Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 1577.

Kaplan, R. &. (1989). The experience of nature: A psychological perspective. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

van den Berg, A. E. (2003). Environmental preference and restoration: (How) are they related? . Journal of Environmental Psychology, 23(2), 135-146.

White, M. P. (2019). Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 1-11.

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