THE INFLUENCE OF ECOLOGICAL TOURS ON THE PSYCHO-EMOTIONAL STATUS OF TOURISTS

Abstract

Aim. The study aims to reveal the recreational potential of the Zyuratkul ridge for ecological tours based on the control of the psycho-emotional status of tourists. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on October 15, 2020 during the tour to the Zyuratkul ridge located on the territory of the Zyuratkul National Park. Psycho-emotional status was assessed during the study. The study involved 17 people from Chelyabinsk ages 17–25 years. To determine the level of psycho-emotional status, the methods of A. Wessman and D. Ricks as well as the Wellbeing. Activity. Mood (SAN) method were used. The processing of the results was carried out by using statistical methods. Results. The results of the study confirmed the hypothesis about the positive influence of the mountain landscape on the psycho-emotional status of the participants of the ecological tour. In general, mountainous terrain influenced positively the psycho-emotional status of parti­cipants, however, the features of mountain landscapes and natural obstacles such as stone rivers contributed to a decrease in physical activity and endurance of tourists. Conclusion. During the ecological tour, participants climbed the Zyuratkul ridge, covering a path of 9.7 kilometers, ascending the Zyuratkul ridge with a height of 1175 m above sea level and overcoming the rise of 451 m. The study showed a positive effect of the mountain landscape on the psycho-emotional status of tourists despite the physical activity associated with natural obstacles.