Studies have shown that people who regularly spend time in natural settings, hiking or otherwise, have improved memory and recollection. You are also removing all the new age stimuli that we often expose ourselves to throughout the day and right before bedtime (phones, computers, TV's and the like). Walking or climbing over uneven terrain uses 28% more energy than walking over flat ground. Never underestimate the 'happiness effect' of being outdoors. Getting out into nature decreases what psychologists call ' rumination', which are negative thought patterns that play over and over in our heads such as dwelling on embarrassing or disappointing moments or thinking about everything we think is wrong with our lives. Going for a hike reduces your blood pressure and cortisol levels producing a calming effect only nature can offer - over an above the benefits of exercise alone. Nine to five jobs, full social calendars and everyday life admin is enough to keep us at a permanent level of stress below the surface. Hiking clears the mind and reduces stress Here are ten reasons hiking is good for your soul (and why your should start hiking in 2018).ġ. Health is more than cardio and strength conditioning, and our New Years resolution reflects that (hike more, worry less!). It's 2018 people and it's about time we focused on more than aesthetics. This isn't a 'get fit and lose weight in 30 days' post. Clambering over uneven surfaces and navigating your way around rocks, fallen trees, across streams and over tree roots engages your core and works your upper body for a true holistic work out.īut the physical benefits are almost incidental to how hiking can contribute to your overall mental health and wellbeing. Getting outside for even a short hike regularly can reduce your risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure and cholesterol and help to prevent type II diabetes. As a form of exercise, there's nothing like a brisk climb to get your heart rate up. There's a truckload of research out there telling us that hiking is good for us.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |