Hiking is one of the few activities that can actually improve your mental, physical and spiritual health and well being. Not to mention that it can be a welcome departure from your daily routine.
I make the time to put three or four trail miles under my feet at least twice a week. No need to plan an elaborate vacation around hiking, although I have. There are likely to be countless opportunities closer than you think. The state parks where I live are excellent.
Sometimes we get so closely involved with problems at work or issues at home that we need to step back. Hiking can give you the space you need to see these issues with clarity. Maybe you’re a walking victim of information overload. Just listening to nature can calm the mind. Hiking gives you time to think or avoid thinking.
The challenges you face in daily life might not seem so daunting once you’ve completed a section of challenging trail. Hiking can present you with all sorts of terrain and obstacles. As a result, you may feel there’s nothing you can’t do. Everything else is put into perspective.
Physically, the benefits are staggering. Hiking can decrease your resting blood pressure, increase your stamina, help you lose weight if you’re on a diet and prevent heart disease. It’s a great cardio workout and the view from the treadmill cannot compare with the view from the trail.
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 can’t think of a more exciting family activity. I’ve seen hiking mend the rifts between father and son, husband and wife and the outdoor memories created among friends you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
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!
