Hiking - Let your mind wander freely out on the trails.

Hiking  - Let your mind wander freely out on the trails.

Taking on the trails – in summer or winter – is so powerful for our health and well being. The idea of making hiking an activity is perfect for to increase overall health and wellness.  A unique experience from typical exercise – there is just something about being around the trees, that simply seems to oxygenate our hearts, sharpens our minds and calms our souls.

Don’t just take our word for it- here is what science says about the benefits of hiking

1 –  Sharpens your mind – why do you think that hiking can sharpen your mind?  All exercise is good for us. While taking on the treadmill or the stationary bike gets your heart rate up, works your lungs and keeps you feeling younger and stronger.

When it comes to hiking, you have the trail that require navigating and not all is predictable.  From the dirt, branches, rocks and other obstacles that force you to pay attention to the details which is so very good for the brain to keep it sharp and alert. 

2 –  Keeps you calm and happy – exercise in general is an amazing stress buster. Why is hiking different? Walking in green spaces helps us recover from attention overload, as we are taken away from the busy streets or walking paths, our non stop cell phones and other constant distractions. Coupled with the state of wonder that most of us feel in nature and the sense of being a part of something so much bigger than ourselves, this improves our mood and since hiking can be done anywhere with little equipment, it’s easy to get that dose of happiness.

3 – Increases your creativity – walks in nature helps your mind wander freely. We often hear about creatives who have found inspiration in natural spaces and there is a reason for that.  As the natural settings calm us, it allows our minds to wander in ways that aren’t as busy and easier to flow naturally and feel the emotions from the thoughts. The vastness and unpredictable natural scenery allows the creative flow to come to us without all the other thoughts of the day taking over our mindset.

Hiking is a great way to move your body and improve your mood, so grab a water bottle, get into your favorite Moose Voyage hiking gear and head out on the trail – you won’t be sorry that you did.