One of the Blue Zones Project Power 9 is to Move Naturally and as the weather cools down we want to help you get out and move with your loved ones! One great way to do that is with the launch of a new app, OuterSpatial, from the Napa County Park RX Coalition. OuterSpatial, launched this past August and will list free events and activities to encourage residents to get outdoors and be active for improved health.

OuterSpatial will feature walking maps to encourage residents to get to know their neighborhood, themed challenges, and scavenger hunts with a chance to win prizes. It also has park outings like guided nature hikes, story walks, disc golf, and kayaking. In addition, it highlights community activities such as tree planting events, yoga in the park and family movement classes that are happening throughout the county. This will be an on-going resource and updated monthly by coalition members to help residents of all ages find fun ways to get involved in local community outings and enjoy parks.

Dr. Karen Relucio, Napa County Public Health Officer was excited to share her thoughts, “We are excited this app will help connect our residents to free outdoor activities. Being in nature improves mental health and physical well-being. We encourage everyone to download the app and visit their local parks.”

Park access is a key indicator of physical activity levels. According to Napa County’s Recreation and Open Space Element of the General Plan, only 41% of Calistoga residents and 47% of St. Helena residents are within a ten-minute walk to a park compared to Yountville with 71%, the City of Napa with 73% and American Canyon with 83% of residents. In addition, the 2018 Napa County Community Health Assessment indicated only 2 out of 5 residents walk regularly for transport, exercise, or fun. Park Prescription programs are an innovative way to encourage residents to be more active and meet community needs.

You can download the app in the Apple App or Google Play Stores or by going to www.outerspatial.com.

The Napa ParkRx Coalition consists of the following agencies:  Adventist Health St. Helena, American Canyon Community & Parks Foundation, Blue Zones Project Upper Napa Valley, BSMNM, Catholic Charities, City of American Canyon, City of Napa, City of St. Helena, Lake Berryessa, Napa Bicycle Coalition, Napa Open Space District, Napa RCD, Napa County Public Health Department, and Innovative Health Solutions