"Stepping into Nature: The Mind-Boosting Benefits of Hiking and Being Outdoors"

The benefits that hiking and being outdoors can have on our mental health is significant. Whether it's a short walk in a local park or a multi-day trek through a wilderness area, getting outside and exploring nature can support our mental wellbeing in numerous ways.

One of the most significant benefits of hiking and being outdoors is the opportunity to disconnect from technology and the constant stimulation of modern life. When we're out in nature, we're surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world. We're able to slow down and be present in the moment, which can help us feel more grounded and centered within ourselves.

Research has shown that spending time in nature can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A study conducted by the University of Essex found that just five minutes of exercise in a green space can improve mood and self-esteem. Similarly, a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found that people who took a 90-minute walk in a natural setting showed reduced activity in the part of the brain associated with rumination, a common feature of anxiety.

Another benefit of hiking and being outdoors is the opportunity to get some exercise. Exercise is well known for its positive effects on mental health, including reducing symptoms of stress, improving mood, and boosting mindfulness. Hiking and walking are both great ways to get some low-impact exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of our surroundings.

In addition to the physical and mental health benefits of hiking and being outdoors, spending time in nature can also help us feel more connected to something larger than ourselves. When we're out in the natural world, we're reminded of the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and our place within it. This can be incredibly grounding and help us gain a sense of perspective on our own lives.

There's something incredibly therapeutic about being in nature. The natural world has a way of slowing us down and encouraging us to be more mindful and present. Whether we're watching a sunset, listening to the sounds of a babbling brook, or simply sitting in silence surrounded by trees, being in nature can help us feel more relaxed, calm, and at peace.

If you're looking to get started with hiking and being outdoors, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, start small. You don't need to go on a multi-day trek through the wilderness to experience the benefits of nature. A short walk in a local park or nature reserve can be just as beneficial. Second, make sure you're prepared. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and make sure you have a map or GPS device with you. Finally, be respectful of the natural world. Stay on designated trails, pack out your trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Hiking and being outdoors can have a profound impact on our mental health and wellbeing. By taking the time to disconnect from technology, get some exercise, and connect with nature, we can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood and self-esteem, and gain a sense of perspective on our lives. So why not grab your hiking boots and hit the trails? Your mind and body will thank you.

-@sauntertosummit

References:

University of Essex. (2010). Green Exercise Research.https://www.essex.ac.uk/greenexercise

Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., Hahn, K. S., Daily, G. C., & Gross, J. J. (2015). Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(28), 8567-8572. https://www.pnas.org/content/112/28/8567

Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Exercising to relax. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax