Hiking is good for the soul. Not only does it get you out in the fresh air, but it keeps you fit and healthy. You get to see new parts of the world, with few equipment needed. Make sure you take your walking stick and a camping blanket if you plan to spend the night. Oh, and a camera to capture the beauty. You might even bring a hammock and relax between two trees!
Here are five reasons why hiking is good for you:
1. Nothing gives you a perspective like hiking
A woman named Cheryl hiked the Pacific Crest Trail to cope with her mother’s death, her drug use, and her divorce. Cheryl’s experiences led her to write the book Wild. The movie featured Reese Witherspoon and inspired a new generation of women to get out and hike the trail for themselves.
It wasn’t just about going for a really long walk. It was about having space to understand what has happened in your life. It’s about giving you new perspective and adjusting how your view things.
2. Hiking keeps you fit
You can burn 440 calories per hour hiking. This can be increased with a technique called “Nordic walking.” All you need are lightweight walking shoes and good quality trekking poles or hiking sticks.
Nordic walking helps build upper body strength, giving you stronger arms and shoulders. And the motion of cross country skiing helps to increase lung capacity.
3. Hiking makes you happy
Hiking is not only good exercise, but it makes you feel happy. Hiking releases endorphins and serotonin. These help you to deal with anxiety and will starve away depression. Serotonin helps protect against feelings of loneliness and improves your mood. These chemicals are essential to keep you feeling happy.
4. Hiking ShowsYou the Best of the Country
From the Rockies, down to the Florida Keys, through to New England in the fall, America’s landscape is truly envied. Getting in touch with nature can also put you in touch with your spirituality. The spectacular scenery leaves you in awe and you can’t help but to ask deeper questions of life.
5. Hiking is for all ages
Hiking is suitable for all ages. You may only walk a few miles or you might choose to walk the Appalachian Trail like Bill Bryson, who inspired the movie A Walk in the Woods. You can walk with family or friends, and you don’t need any prior training. You just put one foot in front of the next and enjoy the view.
Hiking can give you a new outlook on life and the world around you. It gives you the space and time to think about your experiences and the future ahead. Just pack up your boots, your map, lunch and a flask of water, and you are on your way to an amazing day.
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