The Joy of Outdoor Physical Activity

There is substantial evidence that exists demonstrating the benefits of outdoor physical activity on the human psyche and condition.  We have witnessed ample evidence of that impact over the course of our first week in Puerto Rico, as almost everything we have done has included some element of outdoor physical activity.  This week began with baseball practice at a beautiful new facility subsidized by Major League Baseball in Caguas, PR.  It continued with a heavy dose of baseball on Tuesday, set against the stunning backdrop of the Puerto Rican mountains.  The sport of baseball is truly a passion in Puerto Rico, and that is evident everywhere we go.  Significant resources are invested in the construction and maintenance of baseball stadiums in cities and towns throughout the island, often regardless of the size of the city.  The GC team had the privilege of playing in two AA stadiums in one day, first in Comerio and then in Aibonito, Puerto Rico.  In both instances, the players moved throughout the day with looks, shouts, and actions of pure joy.  They embraced the nature of what they were doing: taking joy in the physical movement of their bodies, doing something they love, in a truly stunning natural setting.  The psychological impact of that experience on each of them was palpable.

This theme of physical activity continued in the students’ visit to a rural Puerto Rican school on Wednesday, where they played volleyball, wiffle ball, basketball, and ping pong with elementary and middle school children.  The whooping, hollering, and laughter were contagious.  It was a reminder of how uplifting physical activity outdoors can be and how it serves as a balm to the human spirit.