The Wonderful Benefits of Hiking
I’ve always been such a nature lover and I love just about everything outdoors especially exploring hiking trails. The more time I step out into nature I always feel more present in my surroundings, promotes creative stimulation, elevated my mood positively and in turn I feel more gratitude in my way of thinking for all that i have in my life.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order”. – John Burroughs
Outdoor hiking has various benefits for both the mind and the body. Hiking is inexpensive, so easy to begin, and no matter what fitness level you are currently at in your life. If you look closely, there are many wonderful hiking spots to explore and discover in your area. Many times i have people reaching out to me with the best locations for trail hiking, so i’d like to share with you my go-to list of our favorite hiking spots we love. But first let me share with you the many benefits of outdoor hiking for the mind and body for overall well-being.
INCREASES FITNESS:
Depending on the terrain, in just one hour of trekking you can easily burn 500 calories. Hiking trails are softer on your joints versus concrete or other surfaces. And if you are heading for the hills, weight loss results double.
CONTROLLED WORKOUTS:
In hiking it’s so easy to carve out your own course whether it’s a slow incline to a very step paced path up a mountain. You are able to set your own pace and distance too. You make your own choices.
TOTAL BODY TONING:
Physiologically, you’re going to work your whole body, especially with the lower region of your quads, glutes and hamstrings. If you’re carrying a backpack, you will challenge yourself by your strength and endurance of your upper body as well.
LOWERING BLOOD PRESSURE, CHOLESTEROL AND DIABETES:
Consistent hiking will and can prevent or reduce the blood sugar levels in the system. When you are working your muscles it helps to move the glucose from the blood stream for energy. Hiking downhill is way more effective at removing blood sugars and improving glucose tolerance.
INCREASES CREATIVITY AND CURBS DEPRESSION:
Research has shown spending time in nature increases attention spans and creative problem solving skills by 50%. Even just walking will get the creative juices flowing than just sitting. For depression, research has shown that using hiking for additional therapies can help people feel less hopeless and less suicidal.
HIKING HEALS:
With regular physical activity in one’s life can help improve the antioxidative capacity, which wards off many diseases especially in the blood of oncological patients. You may have heard many times with breast cancer survivors who increased exercise consistently believed that it complemented their recovery and overall well being. Being out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle and technology, can allow people to connect with themselves and nature that will bring peace, harmony and a better sense of well being.
Hope you found this helpful in getting out into nature with the overall benefits. You may be pleasantly surprised with the overall results.
TOP 11 BEST HIKING LOCATIONS WE ENJOY:
FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK in Carmel, NY
FORT BARTON in Tiverton, RI
PURGATORY CHASM in Sutton, MA and Middletown, RI
CLIFFWALK in Newport, RI
SACHUEST POINT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE in Middletown, RI
BEAVERTAIL STATE PARK in Jamestown, RI
LINCOLN WOODS (sunset trail) in Lincoln, RI
JOHN CHAFEE NATURE PRESERVE in North Kingston, RI
POWDER MILLS LEDGES WILDLIFE REFUGE in Smithfield, RI
MAXWELL MAYS WILDLIFE REFUGE in Smithfield, RI
GEORGE PARKER WILDLIFE REFUGE in Coventry, RI
GODDARD PARK in East Greenwich, RI
ROGER WILLIAMS STATE PARK (pond trail) in Providence, RI
Lantern Hill Trail (Ledyards/Foxwoods) in Connecticut
Rocky Point Park Trails in Warwick, R.I.
The Mowry Conservation in Smithfield, R.I.
Get out there and explore what mother nature has to offer! It costs nothing and it is good for you. Remember to nourish your mind, body and soul for overall well-being.
Hope you enjoy this list. As time goes on I surely will add more gem spots. If you appreciate nature like i do, please share your favorite places to get into nature. Any questions, comment below. Thank you.