Three Day Effect

We, as backpackers, campers, kayakers, and hikers, experience a shift in perspective and thinking once we hit the third day of being in the wilderness.  The frontal cortex is freed up and Strayer’s (cognitive neuroscientist) studies show that “sensory perception, empathy and productive day-dreaming” are enhanced. It is the consequence of unplugging and freeing up our mind to fresh ideas. Strayer’s study also found that people become more creative, more relaxed and better at problem-solving. Our backpacking retreats were partly designed around these findings.  It is exciting for us to witness this effect and how beneficial it can be! David Strayer, Florence Williams (author of The Nature Fix) and Ken Sanders have all contributed to the phenomenon of the Three-Day Effect.