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Food and Nutrition

At Open Sky, we place a strong emphasis on healthy eating and nutrition as integral components of our wilderness therapy approach. We understand that proper nutrition has a profound impact on the physical health and overall well-being of our students. A healthy diet is not only crucial for maintaining physical well-being but also plays a significant role in our students' mental and emotional states.

Nourishing Body and Mind: Open Sky's Commitment to Healthy Eating

Cultivating Wellness: Our Food Philosophy
Open Sky believes in the transformative power of food in nurturing mind-body health. Our food philosophy is rooted in a holistic understanding of wellness. We carefully curate our menu to provide a balanced selection of high-quality whole foods, including organic meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Prioritizing ingredients that are free from pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics, we ensure that our students receive the most nourishing meals possible.

Building a Strong Foundation: Food Logistics
To support our students' nutritional needs, we source food from reputable and sustainable providers, including organic farms and local meat processing facilities. Our dedicated team handles the logistics of organizing and delivering the food to each student team in the field. Our food supply encompasses a diverse range of options, from high-quality meats and fresh vegetables to whole grains, dried foods, and beverages like electrolyte powders and herbal teas. We also prioritize accommodating students with dietary restrictions, offering certified nut-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and vegan and vegetarian choices.

Empowering Through Culinary Skills: Meal Preparation
Meal preparation at Open Sky is an empowering and collaborative process. Students actively participate in cooking activities under the guidance of our experienced team. Through hands-on experiences such as fire building by bow drill and cooking over an open fire, students not only acquire practical wilderness skills but also develop confidence and adaptability in the outdoor environment.

Our guides follow a teaching philosophy that encourages progression. Starting with demonstrations, they gradually work alongside students, empowering them to take charge independently. This approach fosters self-efficacy and confidence as students gain mastery in meal preparation.

Taking Ownership: Student Involvement in Meal Planning
At Open Sky, we believe in the importance of student involvement in the meal planning process. Students actively contribute their preferences and favorite meal themes to the menu. This collaborative approach allows them to take ownership of their food choices, fostering creativity and a sense of belonging within their teams.

The Healing Power of Food: Enhancing Well-Being
Open Sky recognizes the profound therapeutic value of healthy eating. Food has a direct impact not only on our physical health but also on our mental and emotional well-being. Many of our students come to us with various food-related challenges, such as allergies, intolerances, disordered eating, and unhealthy habits. By addressing their specific nutritional needs, we witness remarkable transformations as students report increased energy levels, improved sleep patterns, and a renewed sense of vitality.