This article distinguishes between outdoor recreation and outdoor leisure based on their philosophical underpinnings. Outdoor recreation is typically goal-oriented, focusing on hedonic (pleasure-focused) well-being and extrinsic motivation, while outdoor leisure emphasizes eudaimonic well-being (meaning, purpose and authenticity) through contemplation, intrinsic motivation, and mindfulness.
The paper identifies two key psychological constructs that can facilitate outdoor leisure experiences:
- Awe: Defined as "a transcendental feeling facilitated by being in the presence of something vast," awe can help diminish one's sense of self and encourage contemplation of how one fits into larger systems. Research shows awe can be experienced in urban settings through exposure to natural elements, not just in remote wilderness areas.
- Solitude: Characterized by self-reflective thoughts and feelings when alone, solitude provides space for contemplation and escape from daily life. Studies show urban park visitors seek solitude to mentally remove themselves from urban stressors, though cultural and social factors influence who can safely experience solitude.
Research indicates that leisure experiences facilitated through awe and solitude can promote connectedness to nature, which has been linked to numerous health benefits and pro-environmental behaviors. Urban settings provide unique opportunities for these experiences, though park characteristics may influence whether visitors feel safe or comfortable experiencing awe and solitude.
Environmental educators working in urban settings can apply these concepts by:
- Designing programs that provide opportunities for both guided recreation activities and unstructured leisure experiences that allow for contemplation
- Creating spaces within urban parks where visitors can experience awe through exposure to natural elements like mature trees, water features, or expansive views
- Establishing quiet zones that support solitude and minimize anthropogenic noise, while ensuring these spaces feel safe and accessible to diverse visitors
- Recognizing that people experience awe and solitude in different ways based on cultural backgrounds and personal preferences - some may find it through traditional activities like hiking, while others may experience it through artistic expression, meditation, or other activities
- Involving community members in co-creating environmental education programs that honor their unique relationships with urban nature
- Balancing the need for structured learning with opportunities for intrinsically motivated exploration and contemplation
The paper suggests that by facilitating experiences of awe and solitude through outdoor leisure, environmental educators may help urban residents develop a deeper, more authentic connection to nature that complements the benefits of outdoor recreation activities.
The Bottom Line
This conceptual paper argues that outdoor leisure experiences, distinct from outdoor recreation, can effectively promote connectedness to nature for urban park visitors. The author proposes that two psychological constructs - awe and solitude - are particularly effective in promoting leisure experiences in urban outdoor spaces. While outdoor recreation tends to be goal-oriented and hedonic (pleasure-focused), outdoor leisure emphasizes eudaimonic well-being (meaning, purpose, authenticity) and intrinsic motivation. The paper synthesizes philosophical and psychological literature to explain how land managers and environmental educators can facilitate experiences of awe and solitude in urban parks to foster a deeper connection between urban residents and nature.