Marie-Pier Préfontaine has been skiing for as long as she can remember. The super-G and giant slalom specialist – and new Parmi ambassador – descended the world’s most impressive peaks during her pro career. And almost a decade since retiring from competitive skiing, her yen for adventure and zest for exploring continue to lead her back to the mountains, where she finds calmness in the intensity of her efforts. Having now lived for nine years in Pemberton – a village in British Columbia located at the foot of spectacular Mount Currie – she enjoys the immense natural playground that is her backyard in both summer and winter.
Several studies have shown the benefits of mountains for both physical and psychological health: lowering blood pressure; reducing stress and anxiety; improving one’s focus; and more. All benefits that Marie-Pier is very familiar with. Here are five that she experiences daily.
- A stronger connection with nature
“Being able to spend my energy while connecting with nature is something that I will never take for granted,” the former Olympic athlete said, mindful of her good fortune. Studies have shown that people who feel more connected to nature tend to be happier. Spending time outdoors also encourages positive emotions like peace of mind, joy and creativity.[1]
- A sense of accomplishment
Every year, Marie-Pier sets separate goals for herself for summer and winter. She’s planning on climbing Mount Matier – the highest peak in Duffey Lake Provincial Park – this summer, and then when the temperatures drop, she’ll ski down its beautiful glacier face. The mountains offer infinite possibilities to those seeking new challenges or wanting to push their limits.
- Increased versatility
It’s not only the challenges that abound in the mountains, but the range of activities as well: Downhill skiing, ski touring, snowmobiling, mountain biking, trail running, hiking, camping, swimming… All activities that Marie-Pier enjoys. Indeed, the mountain – with its scenic trails and glacier-fed lakes – is the perfect place to try new activities and become more versatile.
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Marie-Pier’s go-to: Merino wool
Whatever the path or activity she chooses, Marie-Pier can always count on her favourite Parmi essentials for her mountain trips, especially the Merino pieces. “I've had the Free Range t-shirt since May and I wear it almost every day. I went on a big two-day ski hut adventure, and it was the only t-shirt I brought. I wore it when hiking, when relaxing, for sleeping and then when skiing the next day. I only needed one backpack; it was perfect!”
For more of Marie-Pier's essentials, take a look right here.
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- A solid physical preparation
Altitude workouts also provide significant physical benefits, including strengthening respiratory muscles and increasing lung capacity (two great assets for all types of athletes and outdoor enthusiasts). “The everyday activities in the mountains train me for the bigger missions that I live for doing. I love exploring and pushing my physical and mental self,” she said.
- Unforgettable moments with friends
Climbing challenging peaks and seeing the beauty of our world can also help us stay grounded and (re)focus on what matters most: health and the people we love. Marie-Pier knows this first-hand as she finds herself cherishing those moments of serenity spent in the mountains with her friends. “I like to go where less people go and find the calm and intensity of climbing a peak as well as share it with my closest and trusting friends,” she said.
Thinking of exploring your region’s mountains or beyond this summer? Make sure to take the necessary precautions before heading out:
- Bring enough water for the length of your outing. Drinking water stations tend to be rare in the mountains.
- Protect yourself against mosquitoes by wearing long clothes, especially during the evening.
- Schedule some nourishing snack breaks.
- Know your route by heart before leaving or bring a map and compass for longer journeys. Internet connections and telephone signals are often poor (or non-existent) at altitude.
- Go at your own pace, one step at a time! If you don't reach the summit on your first go, don't worry: The mountain will still be there tomorrow ;)
[1] https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/research/nature-how-connecting-nature-benefits-our-mental-health
