It seems these days everyone and anyone is getting outside, hiking, spending less time indoors and more time outside. Though it may seem like a current trend or “fashion statement” there are so many reasons why so many others and myself are doing it! If you haven’t already experienced the joy that comes from spending time in the outdoors, here are my top 10 reasons I suggest you should “Take a Hike”.
Nothing is more refreshing than fresh air
Whether you live in the suburbs or the city, nothing beats the indescribable feeling when breathing in crisp, fresh mountain air. It’s so clean and refreshing, just like sipping on ice-cold water on a hot sunny day. With the rate of pollution rising and exhaust in the air, those chemicals inhaled can be carcinogenic and dangerous for your health. By taking the time to go on a hike and soak in the fresh air Mother Nature has to offer will be refreshing and also good for your overall health.
The Views are Breathtaking
Lets face it, the outdoors are extremely beautiful in a variety of unique, special ways; trees, lakes, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, peaks, you name it. You can hike to almost any destination as long as you are prepared with the right gear and proper resources. Though the “hike” may be grueling and maybe even painful at first, the views are always worth it!
You Make New Friends Along the Way
The hiking community, tied along with social media, Instagram, Ten Tree and Facebook has allowed so many people to branch out and make new friends. These accounts have allowed people to open up their lives and invite others in where friendships can be prospered. Bonds have been created that will forever be cherished. I have personally witnessed and experienced some of the most memorable moments with friends because our love for the outdoors brought us together in the most wild places. If you haven’t already reached out to someone you look up to, try it. It might change your life. My best friend Erin Noelle reached out to me last October as a stranger, and we have been the closest friends since then.
Hiking Improves Health and Fitness
Hiking and climbing can help you get that body you always wanted. It’s not always easy getting from point A to point B, especially if you have a heavy pack on for an overnighter. By doing so, you increase muscle strength, endurance, reduce blood pressure, increase stamina, relieve stress, get your heart rate up, and increase longevity. However, the mountains can be very dangerous so always be precautious and bring a first aid kit everywhere you go.
Gives you an “Escape from the Real World”
Spending time outdoors gives you a sense of peace and contentment while allowing you to step away from your day-to-day life. In today’s world, we are often bombarded by busy schedules, technology, social class, traffic and so much more. Hiking, and especially camping, gives you the chance to let it all go, and live in the moment. You get a small window of time to ponder on what is most important to you in your life and think about making some of the most crucial decisions that are placed in front of you.
Good Source of Vitamin D, the “Happy Vitamin”
Spending time in the sunshine is not only going to help get you a golden tan, but will also provide you with an adequate amount of Vitamin D necessary for good health. Vitamin D promotes happiness, regulates cell growth, plays an important roll in immunity and helps deposit minerals in bones and teeth. Soaking up the sunshine is overall beneficial in a variety or ways and will make you a happier person!
Challenges Your Limits
Hiking offers a sense of competition without competing with anyone else, only yourself. It’s not a meant to be a race with the person hiking next to you, but rather an interpersonal challenge set to your own capabilities. It may not be a physical challenge for some, but also a mental, and spiritual challenge. Hiking allows you to learn more about yourself and grow into a better person because of it, try it, you’ll see.
Helps you feel Alive
You’ll be impressed what you find you are capable of and the places you will see. You’ll gain a sense of deeper value for yourself, for Mother Nature, and become a more confident person. That’s what Ten Tree is all about. You will learn to live in the moment, and gain a deeper appreciation for the planet we all call home.
A Different Kind of High
Hiking offers a different kind of high. A high not associated with drugs or alcohol or going out to the clubs and staying up all night partying. Hiking offers a surreal sense of accomplishment and an adrenaline rush. It increases your dopamine and serotonin levels (happy hormones) in a healthy way. Not only that, but there is no better feeling that feeling like you are on top of the world, literally.
You May Meet Someone Special
Last summer I happened to meet the love of my life on top of a mountain. It wasn’t through social media, but rather by chance. The love for the outdoors brought us together and we have been inseparable since. You never know who you may run into when you’re out in the wilderness. Go give it a chance, and see what “The Hiking Movement” its all about. You wont be disappointed. Check out my instagram @annniegirl 🙂
