Utah is known for its natural beauty, diverse landscapes, fry sauce, and, of course, The Greatest Snow on Earth®.
Consistently a state with some of the highest net in-migration in the country, skiing and winter sports bring many people to Utah, whether for tourism or to become residents. With 15 incredible ski resorts across the state, outdoor enthusiasts are excited to live with year-round access to the mountains right in their "backyard."
This got me thinking about the psychology of skiing. For those who love to strap on skis or a snowboard and glide down a snow-covered mountain – why do we love it so much? Is it the fresh air? Confidence in tackling a skill? The forced focus and adrenaline? I connected with Britt Holmes, Doctor of Psychology at the University of Utah, to learn more about this topic. She told me, "The ability to connect with a sport you love improves wellbeing."
So, let's dive into the psychology. For better clarity and understanding, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior, including how people think, feel, motivate themselves, and act. Dr. Holmes says skiing can trigger the release of several chemicals associated with a positive mood. We'll get technical for just a second, but stay with me!
Dopamine
Dr. Holmes explains that tackling a challenging run or trying something in the terrain park can give a sense of personal accomplishment, sometimes associated with dopamine. This neurotransmitter, or brain messenger, is a reward or reinforcement system.
Adrenaline
When we take on a healthy level of challenge or excitement, Dr. Holmes says adrenaline leads to an energy rush, increased heart rate, and makes us more alert. While adrenaline can lead to a fight-or-flight response, at healthy levels, it can be positive and healthy.
Endorphins
The physical exercise of skiing also contributes to the release of endorphins, hormones that lead to positive feelings, reduced stress and even pain relief.
Oxytocin
Because many people ski in groups (with family members, friends, co-workers, or group lessons), Dr. Holmes believes that oxytocin plays a role in how skiing can make us feel good. She explains that oxytocin is a hormone that gives us a sense of bonding and boosts mood.
Mother Nature
Finally, Dr. Holmes says an increasing number of studies show that being outside, in nature, and near trees can improve well-being. Doctors even prescribed time in nature to help patients with mood and overall health.
When you combine all of this, in addition to reducing screen time and social media use while skiing, Dr. Holmes says it offers a powerful way to gain physical, mental, and emotional health benefits at once. What's more, the positive shared experiences and connections developed from skiing have a lasting ripple effect on maintaining relationships and support systems off the slopes.
While skiing and the mountains can be a paradise and bring incredible joy, Dr. Holmes says the high rates of depression and suicide in mountain towns are a major concern. I asked Dr. Holmes about The Paradise Paradox, a film that explores the mental health crisis affecting America's mountain town, released in October 2023. Many of the factors addressed in the film include isolation, limited resources, income disparity, and stigma around mental health. Dr. Holmes explains that Utah offers somewhat more options for care as it's possible to live in more populated areas like Salt Lake City and Park City and still have quick access to the mountains. She explains that more research on mental health continues, and she's excited to see what new developments arise to support our mountain communities.
Now that you better understand the psychology of skiing, we can't forget the feels of a bluebird day of fun on the slopes!
