Being out in nature has always been something that’s soothed me. Hearing birds chirping, feeling the warmth from the sun, and getting to surround myself with an endless amount of greenery is basically everything I need for all the feel-good vibes. So it’s no wonder that hiking has quickly become one of my favorite past times.
If you’ve been thinking about adding hiking to your list of hobbies too, throw on some boots, load up your backpack with vegan snacks galore, and hit the trails. Then get ready to reap these six benefits of spending time in the great outdoors.
1. It’s an Exercise That Doesn’t Feel Like Exercise
If you dread working out more than anything in the world, you need to make sure your time spent exercising is doing something you actually enjoy. When you go hiking, you’ll never get bored thanks to all the pretty scenery and new trail options. And as you’re making your way through the woods, you’ll completely forget you’re getting the same health benefits as other not-as-enjoyable workouts, from improved muscular and cardiovascular fitness to a calorie burn of more than 500 calories/hour depending on your environment.
2. You’ll Get to See True Beauty in the World
Sure, famous man-made landmarks are cool and all, but the true beauty of the world is out in nature far, far away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. The sights you’ll see while hiking places like the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and Redwood National Park are ones that will stay ingrained in your memory forever.
3. It Helps Fade Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
Since hiking combines two major study-backed stress relievers and anxiety and depression reducers—the Great Outdoors and exercise—spending time on the trails is the perfect way to breathe in some fresh air and forget about all about your problems. You’ll feel a sense of calm you didn’t even know existed. Never underestimate the power of a little sunshine and fresh air.
4. It’s a Bonding Experience
Grabbing a friend, family member, or your significant other for a hike is a great way to bond on a completely new level. When it’s just you and nature, there’s no room for distractions, and the door opens for meaningful conversations. On top of that, no one will be spending time glued to their phones. Score.
5. It Boosts Your Creativity
Feeling like you’ve hit a wall at work or in your personal life? Maybe all you really need is a mental boost. Taking time away from technology and really connecting with yourself and nature has been shown to help replace brain fog with a whole new level of creativity and imagination that can really benefit you once you re-enter the real world again.
6. It’s Totally Free
If that’s not a reason to hike, I don’t know what is. Even if you just stay close to home and hike around at a nearby park, there’s no cost for being an explorer.