Nature and Recovery: Why Hiking Could Save Your Life
September 23, 2015
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If you are looking for a way to improve your physical and mental health, then it is time to head to the mountains! It has been found that there are a number of health benefits that can be enjoyed by spending time hiking in the mountains, and it is possible that these benefits could actually save your life. Here are some of the benefits that you can expect:
Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
Hiking boosts your heart rate, which is beneficial to reduce your risk of heart disease. Since heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, it is important that you take a proactive approach to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Physical activity strengthens your heart, manages cholesterol levels, and reduces blood pressure. Prevent heart disease by getting your heart rate up on a regular basis.
Lose Weight and Prevent Obesity-Related Disease
Regular exercise is beneficial to help you get rid of excess fat and manage your weight. Obesity can lead to a number of health complications, which is why it is so important to lose the excess weight. Hiking burns more calories than walking alone, because the incline makes your body work harder. You can burn calories and build muscle at the same time, especially when you are hiking a good incline.
As the pounds start to melt away, so will your risk of obesity related diseases, such as diabetes, gout, gallstones, sleep apnea, asthma, and more. Regular exercise, such as hiking, actually changes your metabolism making it easier to keep the weight off long-term.
Reduce Your Stress
Stress takes a toll on both mental and physical health, and people don’t often realize how much chronic stress is wearing them down. If you want to improve your overall health and wellness, then you need to reduce your stress levels. Hiking is one of the most effective ways to manage stress because you can boost your endorphins which has a direct impact on the “feel-good” neurotransmitters in your brain.
Additionally, spending time in nature can have meditative benefits, which helps to shed the tension of life and allows you to re-focus on the present moment. It is common for people to be naturally more optimistic when they are spending more time exercising in nature.
Boost Self-Confidence
Regular exercise has a direct impact on your self-confidence. When you are spending time hiking in the mountains, you will be more relaxed and feel better about yourself. At the same time, these types of activities can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, mild depression and other mental difficulties. You will have a stronger command over your life and your body.
If you struggle with mood swings or you feel bad about your self-image, find ways to exercise more frequently. Getting out of the house and increasing your vitamin D levels can be a great way to feel better and see the positive side of life.
What do you do to help boost your self confidence?