The Benefits of Hiking - James Warner

Rating: ***** If you are unsure about the benefits or positives to hiking, this article puts all of that into perspective. Hiking is a great physical activity that gets you outside instead of running on your treadmill. Being in nature can improve your mental, physical and spiritual health. Lots of people deal with stress everyday, either at home, work or school, and too much stress can raise blood pressure and lead to depression. Taking a hike once or twice a week, or whenever you can, gives you time to clear your mind, think things through, or not think at all. Completing difficult parts of a trail can give you a sense of accomplishment and can make your personal problems seem irrelevant and small. Hiking is a great cardio workout, and what better way to enjoy and explore nature that surrounds us everyday? Hiking can help you respect the planet more, bond with family or friends or mend rifts between loved ones. It's not complicated to start because you don't need a lot of gear to get going. Chances are, there are lots of trails around you, just get out there and find them. I learned that hiking is a fun activity with so many benefits that go beyond physical benefits. It's important to learn the Leave No Trace principles to allow for a safe, responsible and fun experience in nature. Warner, James. The Benefits of Hiking. < Populararticles.com > web. August 26, 2009.