Life pours back: exploring hiking, wellbeing and information behaviour on the West Highland Way

Abstract

Introduction. This study explores wellbeing benefits on the West Highland Way (WHW) long-distance hiking route in Scotland and how they connect with concepts in information behaviour, using the NEF/NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing framework.

Method. Using ethnographic methods, WHW participants were recruited and interviewed in situ as they walked. We used reflexive thematic analysis and the Five Ways to Wellbeing (connect, be active, take notice, learn, give) to code interview data.

Findings. Wellbeing benefits were attributed to social connections along the route; accomplishment in meeting a physical challenge; positive mental mindset from being present in nature; learning through cultural heritage; giving and receiving support from fellow walkers.

Discussion. Findings link with concepts from information behaviour in a number of ways: the social sharing of information enriches the experience; low information needs and embodied sensory information were central to the positive mental wellbeing benefits; walking the WHW is a higher thing, a memorable experience set against everyday life.

Conclusions. Future information behaviour research will benefit from exploring similar activities and their connections to wellbeing benefits, from social sharing of information, low information needs and embodied information. These wellbeing benefits may also be relevant to promoting the WHW.