THE BENEFITS OF HIKING: YOUR MIND AND BODY
We all can appreciate an alluring picture that captivates a breathless nature view. Those pictures that we stumble across make us marvel at the beauty of our world. Once in a while, one makes it onto a trail to personally view the beauty that is all around us. I can’t help but wonder, though, how come we only visit a beautiful trail once in a while since the benefits of hiking are endless? I am going to share a few benefits of hiking that I have encountered, personally, that science backs up. Hopefully, from my experience, you will decide to go out and experience it for yourself.
Your Mind
Improves Your Mood: If you had an awful day, do you want to know what will help? Taking a hike! I remember one day in 2019, I was so stressed with so much going on in my personal life, that it was breaking me down physically and mentally. I had nothing to do, so I decided to distract myself by going on a hike. I swear, the way I felt after was like I was consumed with joy! It was odd. I don’t know if it was the beautiful view of the mountains, the rustling of trees, or the fact that I started the hike, not knowing that in the end, I would be rewarded with such a fantastic view. All I know is that night, I slept without the feeling of worry and anxiety.
Anxiety Reduction: There is something special about unplugging and spending time by connecting with nature. It’s like it melts all your worries away by putting life in perspective. Being present in the environment makes you aware of even the little beauties around you that you usually take for granted. Being aware yields a grateful heart. A heart that’s grateful for the wind, the fresh air that fills your lungs, and even for life.
Your body
Cardiovascular Health: Several studies have been done over the years that show that walking reduces your chances of heart disease. But how does hiking differ? The uneven terrain of a trail can intensify your heart rate. When your heart is beating faster than at it’s resting state every day, it trains your body to move oxygen and blood to your muscles more efficiently. With more practice, the result will be the strengthening of your heart.
Burn More Calories: When your heart is frequently beating faster than your resting state, you essentially are burning calories. Hiking, because of the unexpected terrain, causes you to burn more calories than just going for a walk. This effect will also cause an increase in your metabolism, allowing you to keep weight off or shed more pounds (depending on what you’re seeking to do.)
Stronger Muscles: When I started hiking, I noticed that my legs and core muscles became more robust. My butt also looked lifted and high. Because of the constant change of incline, my legs, thighs, and butt were doing more work, causing my body to have a more toned look. The feeling of being stronger was accompanied by the strength my body showed.
If hiking is something you’ve never done, or it’s been a while, it might be a good idea to go out and explore the beauty around you. Not all hikes are strenuous, so don’t let that misconception deter you from going out there. The views of nature are phenomenal and worth exploring.
