Those of you who know me, or have been following for a while now, know that I am a fan of hiking and the incredible views that you see along the way. Even so, hiking also has so many physical, emotional, and mental health benefits. I am not saying that you need to go on a long or difficult hike, any hike will help. Stay at your skill level and over time you will be able to work your way up to more challenging ones. The most important thing is that you have fun! Here are some of the benefits of hiking:
Mental and Emotional Health Benefits:
Relieves Stress
Hiking reduces stress for two reasons! As a form of exercise, it naturally reduces stress, but in addition, it’s been proven that spending time in nature is a great way to calm the body.
Uplifts your mood and makes you happy
Hiking causes you to release endorphins, and endorphins make you happy!
Motivates you
As a hiker, you create a plan and then you attack it. It’s not always easy to stop and turn around. This motivates you to achieve your goals and changes your mindset.
Unplug
One of my favorite things about hiking is there is no technology, so it gives you the opportunity to disconnect. You are taking a break and enjoying nature.
It allows you to travel and experience more
Once you get into hiking, you will want to travel and go on more adventures. Hiking has allowed me to see more of the world, and plan more trips!
Make new Friends
It is an awesome way to meet new people. Whether it is by joining a meetup group, meeting people on the trail, or interacting with fellow hikers online. I have made so many great friends!
Boosts Creativity
Studies show that people who spend time away from technology and spend more time in nature, are more creative and develop stronger problem-solving skills.
Physical Health Benefits of Hiking:
Improves Balance and posture
It helps build core muscles, which as a direct result helps to improve your balance and posture.
Strengthens muscles and bones
Through physical exercise, such as walking uphill and carrying pack weight, you strengthen your muscles and bones.
Boosts energy
Doing cardio daily will naturally boost your energy levels and going on a hike is an awesome form of cardio.
Burns calories and help lose weight
Since hiking is a form of working out, it will burn calories. It also keeps the mind busy so you don’t even realize how long you are working out for!
Lowers risk of cancer, diabetes, and other diseases
It is good for your heart and strengthens your cardiovascular system which helps keep you healthy.
Regulates blood sugar
When walking, running, or hiking your muscles will consume more glucose (aka sugar).
Helps you sleep better
Your body is using extra energy, so after a hike, you will be able to sleep better and more regularly.
Before hitting the trail, check out our blogs on The 9 essentials you should have on every hike and hiking safety tips. Have Fun!
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