Hiking For A Happier Healthier You

Improve your mental, physical and spiritual health and well being. Hiking is one of the only activities that can actually do this. It gives you the time to shift gears each week and recharge yourself in many ways.

There’s no need to plan a vacation get away to go hiking. Do some research and I’m sure that you will find some great hiking spots nearby. The state parks where I live are fantastic and that’s where you’ll find me twice a week, putting in some trail miles.

Mentally, hiking gives you the space and time to figure things out. We get so involved with what’s happening in our lives that we lack the clarity to make good decisions. Take that time to think, or avoid thinking entirely. If you immerse yourself in the backcountry and shut up long enough to hear nature, something wonderful starts to happen.

Other important mental aspects of longer or more difficult hikes challenge you to negotiate obstacles like creek crossings and dealing with various types of terrain. After completing a challenging section of trail, you feel that there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. The difficulties of everyday life are put in perspective.

As far as the physical benefits, hiking is a great exercise and it can be an awesome cardio workout. Including hiking as part of your exercise regimen will effectively decrease your resting blood pressure, prevent heart disease, increase your stamina and promote weight loss. The view from the trail is so much more interesting than the view from your treadmill.

Experiencing nature, you may find yourself taking more responsibility for our earth’s precious natural resources. This helps us make better decisions for our childrens future and the future of our planet. Spiritually, we are of the earth.

I’ve seen hiking mend the rifts between father and son, husband and wife and the wonderful outdoor memories you’ll cherish for the rest of your life. I cannot think of a more rewarding family pastime.

More good news about day hiking, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on fancy gear. It doesn’t take much to get started. Be sure to learn the basic Leave No Trace principles first. They will help you learn how to minimize your impact and make the most of your outdoor experience. Go take a hike!

James Warner is a hike leader who believes that hiking can improve your life mentally, physically and spiritually. To learn more about hiking, visit: hiking guide

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