Why it works..
How does walking make a difference
The Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes culminating in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, has been a spiritual journey for centuries but is increasingly recognised for its mental and physical health benefits. With over 400,000 pilgrims annually, it offers a structured walking experience that combines physical activity, nature immersion, and social interaction, aligning with the needs of those seeking non-traditional mental health support.
Research Findings on Camino and Mental Health
A study from the University of Barcelona, published in early 2024, conducted a quantitative and qualitative analysis using the Ultreya Project database, involving over 400 pilgrims. The findings, summarized in the table below, indicate significant mental health improvements:
Findings
Mental Health Improvements
Significant reduction in negative affect, emotional discomfort, and stress at the end of Camino, persisting 3 months post-pilgrimage.
Well-being Improvements
Increase in positive affect, happiness, life satisfaction, mindfulness, and coherence with personal values.
Experience Perception
Mostly positive, attributed to connection with others, nature, and "inner journey" of self-knowledge; minority critical due to physical issues or overcrowding.
Transformative Impact
Seen as transformative, offering new life perspectives and meaning.
This study supports the idea that the Camino can foster resilience and reduce stress, key factors in managing PTSD and burnout.
Additionally, a 1982 study on the Lourdes pilgrimage, cited in an MDPI paper, showed emotional improvements due to community, environmental change, and spiritual ambiance, measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Depressive Inventory, with benefits reassessed at 1 and 10 months post-return. While not specific to the Camino, it underscores the therapeutic potential of pilgrimages.