This post is brought to you in sponsorship with REI
Take yourself back to the last time you went on a hike.
Whether it was a short nature walk or a multi-day mountain adventure, bring yourself back to that moment and remember: fresh air kissing your face, nature all around you, the earth underneath your feet…
What did you feel? Did your mood improve?
According to wellness experts like WebMD and Harvard Health Publishing, hiking literally makes you feel better. Not only can the outdoor activity enhance your cardiovascular health, but it also has the power to heighten your mood.
You see, hiking is so much more than a great way to get in shape.
Hiking Is Good For Your Health.
In fact, hiking is proven to have many amazing health benefits for you.
In this article, we will explore how this full body exercise benefits your body and your mind. Get ready to learn how hiking can impact your quality of life and keep you and your family happy and healthy for years to come.
As you now know, hiking is a great source of cardiovascular exercise. Now it’s time to find out what else hiking can do for your physical health.
The Physical Health Benefits of Hiking
Hiking helps you...
- Increase your endurance
- Lose weight and build muscle
- Lower your risk of heart disease
- Improve your cardiovascular health
- Strengthen your legs, core and more
- Improve your balance and stability
And much more.
Now that you know how hiking can benefits your physical health, let’s look at what hiking can do for your state of mind.
You already learned that hiking can elevate your mood, but did you know about the rest of these amazing mental health benefits of hiking?
The Mental Health Benefits of Hiking
Hiking helps you...- Improve your mood
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Lower your risk of depression
- Bring even more happiness to your daily life
- Enhance your sense of direction and orienteering skills
And more.
Can you think of a good reason not to go on a hike?
Your clothes might get dirty, your feet might start to might hurt, your legs might burn with every uphill step. But the moment you reach a vista with panoramic views of delicious scenery, you forget about all that.
It was all worth it, and you can’t wait to do it again.
Who knew something so enjoyable could bring you such good health?
Hiking For A Happier, Healthier Life
Every time you set out on a trail, you boost your mental wellbeing while giving your body the movement it craves.
Plus, hiking is a beautiful reminder of how far you can go on your own two feet. And once you conquer a trail, you’ll feel empowered to make strides in every part of your life.
Ready to change your life one step at a time?
You Can #OptOutside With REI & 52 Hike Challenge Right Now!
We invite you to #OptOutside with REI and 52 Hike Challenge now and in the new year! We challenge you to take a hike once a week for a year. Then get ready to witness all the amazing mental and physical benefits firsthand.
#OptOutside. Because spending time in nature is the best self-care you can give yourself.
We look forward to seeing you on the trails soon. Happy hiking!
