Hiking can transform your life for the better…

Trying to figure out when the travel ban will be lifted in the USA is tricky; because although a few places are open for us to travel to right now, it may not be a good idea to do so. Naturally, this is because we want to stay indoors as much as possible so that the virus stops spreading, and we can ALL, collectively, revert to our normal lives ASAP. 

I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to go back to normal! The new normal is not for me, because a world where I can’t travel freely is not an idea I like very much. 

As for understanding when the travel ban will be lifted – I cannot honestly say. However, what I do know is that we CAN still avoid the blues of not being able to travel. I thought long and hard, and came up with a solution that helps us deal with not being able to fly far this year – hiking!

Hiking

Although taking a hiking trip close to where you live is perhaps not your ideal summer trip, you will be astonished to learn just how fulfilling it is! 

A few weeks ago, I shared some COVID-friendly guidelines for you to keep in mind when you go hiking. Here’s the link, just in case you forgot. 

For a lot of people, hiking is a way of life. You will find hikers who can’t get enough of following their favourite trails and exploring new ones. So much that a normal vacation itinerary for them also includes a whole lot of hiking. 

Me? I wasn’t a hiking person at all. The outdoorsy life was never for me, especially since I am more of a peaceful vacationer. 

Except, I couldn’t stand staying at home the entire time. So I decided to do something I’ve never really cared for; and went hiking.

And, dear reader, you will not believe just how fulfilling it was! Here’s a short video describing my hiking experience (link to the IG video). 

Here are some reasons that hiking is such a fulfilling experience: 

Hiking can help solve a lot of your health problems and prevent others 

There are a number of ways in which hiking can contribute to improved physical health. From better cardiovascular health to a lowered risk of different types of cancer, and a thorough lung-cleansing, hiking is a great way to keep your body young, even as you grow older. Here are some of the health problems that hiking can help cure or prevent: 

• Diabetes
• Cholesterol
• Cancer

Hiking helps you keep fit

This is a more obvious reason. Hiking can help you lose weight and also strengthen your muscles. For people that dislike the gym, hiking is a solid option to get fit. And now, during the coronavirus pandemic – it is perhaps the only option, even for gym-goers. 

Hiking rejuvenates your mind

When you go hiking, you find yourself surrounded by nature. Studies have shown that by stepping into nature and avoiding electronic devices can help you do away with the worries of your daily schedule and other stressors.

Hiking reduces your stress levels

Research has shown that people who spend some time amidst nature are less likely to feel stressed. Regular visits outdoors can help you stay calm for longer periods of time. 

Hiking is a mood-lifter

Yet another fantastic effect of hiking is that your body being active, amidst nature, can help relieve stress hormones – contributing to a happier, more positive state of mind. At a time like this, I bet you could use a mood-lifter, eh? 

Oxygen matters 

When you go off hiking, your body is able to take in more oxygen than in a polluted environment – thanks to all the trees and plants you will encounter. Oxygen is essential for pretty much everything we do. From being linked with the way serotonin in our brain functions to memory, appetite, and social behaviour, ‘getting some fresh air’ is more than just a phrase – it should be taken quite literally, to help you function optimally. 

Hiking improves your sleep quality

Did you know that by hiking on uneven terrain, you use about 28% more energy than if you did on even terrains. This consumption of energy, coupled with taking time off your phone screen, can help you improve the quality of your sleep, as well as your sleep schedule!

Where can you go hiking? 

Depending on where you live, a simple Google search can show you some of the hiking trails you can visit close to you. Of course, make sure you are in compliance with the guidelines as provided by the CDC at all times. 

I can help!

If you would like me to help you plan your hiking trip, you may contact me here: https://thiastravelservices.com/contact and I will be pleased to show you where to go!