The Surprising Health Benefits of Hiking: A Journey to Wellness
The Surprising Health Benefits of Hiking: A Journey to Wellness
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| Malibu Creek State Park: Great Trails Around Here |
Hiking is more than just a recreational activity; it's a holistic exercise that nurtures both body and mind. Regular hikes can lead to significant health improvements, some of which might surprise you. In SoCal, you can find some of the best hiking trails at all levels. I remember going hiking as a kid, just recreationally to get out energy, then as a teen to find spots with friends to appreciate the greenery and now, I go for the absolute natural high it brings (not to mention the escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living). Here are some facts about hiking and how it can contribute to your overall health and fitness goals- some of which might surprise you.
Mental health benefits are one of the main reasons I attempt to consistently hike. Spending time in natural settings has been linked to overall reduced stress levels. The calming effect of nature lowers cortisol levels too, the body's primary stress hormone (NPS.gov). It’s also a natural mood booster. #DYK: Regular hiking can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression; the combination of physical activity and exposure to natural environments boosts mood and overall mental well-being according to bluecrossnc.com. It has even been proven that exercise in general is 1.5x more effective than antidepressants when it comes to mild/moderate depressive symptoms. That goes along with tons of all the cognitive benefits of engaging with nature during hikes including problem-solving skills and creativity; any Recreation Therapist will tell you about the amazing benefits outdoor adventure therapy brings, and here's the evidence! More and more studies reveal that walking in natural settings can improve creative problem-solving abilities by up to 50%.
Physical health benefits include tons of cardiovascular health. Why? Because hiking elevates your heart rate, enhancing aerobic fitness and endurance. The varied terrain and inclines challenge your cardiovascular system, strengthening heart muscles and improving overall heart health. And it also pushes mental barriers, because you’ll have to get back to your starting point eventually, so you may end up being out for exercise longer than you anticipated. On average, you burn about 200 to 250 calories per hour when hiking at a moderate pace which helps with weight management. This calorie expenditure aids in weight loss and helps maintain a healthy weight, according to americanhiking.org. And given the uneven surfaces and elevation changes encountered during hikes, you typically are engaging various muscle groups, including legs, core, and even arms, leading to improved muscle strength and endurance. Learn more at alliancechiroandwellness.com where they go more into depth about how beneficial this can be from a fitness aspect.
Here are a few of my favorite hiking recommendations in and around the San Fernando Valley in Southern California. I like using AllTrails.com to look around, see the photos, and read reviews about the hike intensity. Despite the devastation from the fires in and around the area, there are still several beautiful natural escapes in and around the area while the community continues to work together to recover and restore as a whole.
Hiking in Conejo Valley with these beautiful clouds! See more on my IG.
Embarking on these trails not only offer breathtaking views but also provides the myriad health benefits associated with hiking. Get your hiking boots and explore these local gems next time you’re in the area, to embark on a journey to better your health and well-being. See you on the trails!
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| Malibu Creek State Park- hiking a few miles away from the Palisades Fire 💔 It was so windy! |
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