Hiking to a Better Healthier Me

Last week I introduced the basics of healthy habits that can help take us from a life of merely surviving to a life of thriving. Each person is unique and has to find the right combination of healthy habits that help them flourish. Not everyone can do every habit listed on a daily basis. Realizing that perfection is not required gives the freedom to try different things that seem manageable. By staying curious and trying different combinations and routines, the perfect solution for your lifestyle may be found.

Setting the Stage

On this blog we will explore different ways to incorporate healthy habits into our lives. Sometimes the discussion will be on daily habits, and other times the topic will be adding occasional activities that bring variety to our routine. Today’s topic is hiking!

Hiking

Exercising my body is an absolute must for me. Over the years, there have been times when I was not consistent, but I am constantly reminded of the mental health benefits as well as the physical benefits of moving the body. Walking and jogging are incorporated into my exercise routine several times per week, but what I really love is when I can hit the trails. It is not known who said this quote, but it sums up how I feel about hiking in nature. “Forests environments are therapeutic landscapes.”

Is it Enjoyable?

There is something about being wrapped up in nature that brings peace to my soul. Depending on the environment that is chosen for the hike, it can range from exhilarating, adventurous, and challenging to fun, peaceful, and calming. It also depends on your personality and physical condition as to whether or not you will find hiking something that you will enjoy. In our family, my son and I have always loved hiking, my husband loves it because of me, and my daughter endures it. It has been a source of some really great memories for our family!

A Trail for Everyone

Hiking allows you to be encompassed in nature. It also allows you to see sights that would otherwise never be experienced. One of my favorite things to do is hike to waterfalls. The senses come alive on hikes. There are so many sights, sounds, smells, and feels to enjoy and process. There are so many trails that even those who may not be the most active can still enjoy a short hike from time to time to enjoy some of the benefits.

Breaking out of the Mundane

Hiking most certainly is not for everyone. However, it is an activity that can be fun for families who enjoy the outdoors and adventures. Sometimes we need an activity that can change things up for us, so it can be the perfect activity in place of a walk or jog one day. The mental health benefits can also be appealing. Deep breaths in nature during a hike can bring calmness to your body as you take time to separate yourself and enjoy nature.

Rainbow Falls

In closing, I’ll leave you with some photos from one of the most recent hikes I did with my husband. It was supposed to be a 5 mile hike that turned into an 8 mile hike because of parking issues and the adventurous spirit of my hubby. The weather was perfect that day. The hike up the mountain was a little taxing, but the view of the waterfall was so worth it. The hike back down was relaxing, and the whole experience served to refresh and restore my energy and focus.