#Netherlands #Women Empowerment #Breda University #Breda #Hiking

Rediscovering Women in Nature

As the summer sun beckons adventurers, Breda University of Applied Sciences (BUas) shines a spotlight on an often-overlooked aspect of exploration: the hiking trails dedicated to women. With a history heavily dominated by male figures, from explorers to philosophers, many trails reflect their journeys while neglecting the vital contributions of women. Brigitte Ars, from BUas's Tourism Academy, has taken it upon herself to illuminate these paths by focusing on the 'trails of women'.

The Journey of Exploration

In her book, Het Wilde Vrouwenpad. Avontuurlijke Wandelingen (The Wild Women’s Path: Adventurous Hikes), Ars navigates through various hiking routes that celebrate the free-spirited women of history. From the Dorothy Wordsworth Walking Trail in England to Brigid's Way in Ireland, and from Astrid Lindgren’s Swedish routes to Italy’s Via Matildica, each of these trails offers a unique narrative that honors women’s contributions.

Ars's research goes beyond mere hiking; it delves into how these adventures affect women's resilience. Her conclusions draw upon previous studies indicating that engaging in outdoor activities significantly boosts women's confidence and sense of freedom.

Changing Perceptions

Yet, despite the progress made, the legacy of male-centric outdoor narratives continues to resonate. Noteworthy is the thought-provoking perspective of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who suggested that walking is a contemplative activity unsuitable for women, a notion still echoing in today's social fabric. Ars points out that while adventurous hiking becomes increasingly popular among women, many still struggle against societal expectations that suggest outdoor excursions are inappropriate or even dangerous for them.

In conversations with women interested in solo hiking, Ars has observed a resurgence of traditional views. Questions of social judgment and familial responsibilities often arise, revealing the lingering impact of past gender norms. Nevertheless, the rising awareness of women's hiking trails and solo female adventures has brought hope.

The Therapeutic Value of Adventure

For Ars, embracing challenges through hiking can serve as an antidote to societal pressures and mental health issues such as anxiety and trauma. She posits that embarking on such adventures provides essential moments for reflection and personal growth—a counterbalance to a world often overshadowed by patriarchal themes such as war and division.

Ars's research underscores the importance of female empowerment through outdoor activities, challenging the status quo while highlighting the therapeutic benefits of nature. As an ambassador for Adventure Mind, a British organization investigating the positive impacts of adventure on mental health, she advocates for a life filled with exploration and autonomy.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the call to follow in women’s footsteps is not merely about hiking; it represents a larger movement toward recognizing women's historical roles and ensuring their stories are told. As summer beckons, let us embrace these adventurous trails that not only challenge us physically but also empower us to reclaim our stories, assert our confidence, and inspire future generations of women to wander freely in nature's embrace.