Hiking has become a very popular activity. More and more people all over the world are going out to see the natural beauty and scenic beauty of the hiking trails near them. People are even going on vacation to national parks around the world. This trend is reflected in the high demand for hiking clothing, hiking shoes, hiking backpacks and hiking poles in hiking stores.
Let’s find out why so many people love hiking and what’s so great about it.
1. Reconnect with nature
Years ago, our ancestors lived in and as part of nature. Walking was the means of transportation and was used daily for survival. Today, most people live in cities, separated from nature by walls and buildings. In our modern world, walking is a way to reconnect with nature. It gives us the opportunity to savor what daily life was like for our ancestors, which benefits our bodies, minds and souls in a variety of ways.
2. Physical exercise and health benefits
Hiking is excellent physical exercise. It gets the heart pumping and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, high cholesterol and certain cancers.
And yes, you can also work out in a gym. But a gym is not the same as nature in its purest form. A gym is an artificial and usually lifeless environment. Which is not a bad thing, but nature provides you with a stimulating energy that reduces stress, depression and anxiety and stimulates the brain. It also provides vitamin D to the body.
Hiking simply gives you the opportunity to exercise outdoors, which brings many health benefits.
3. An emotional and mental boost
Research has shown that spending time in nature affects people’s mental health. It was found that people who took a nature walk experienced fewer negative emotions than those who took an urban walk. The power of nature helps people have less stress, be more positive, break addictions and overcome depression and anxiety.
4. Connect with others and make life-long friendships
Hiking is a great activity to do with friends, family, partners, children or even people you don’t know. Especially group hikes with strangers can lead to lifelong friendships. Hiking and getting out in nature is not only a great way to connect people with each other, but it also allows for effortless conversations and leads you to topics you never would have thought about.
5. Adventure
Hiking is the perfect opportunity for adventurers to experience the great outdoors. Especially if you are willing to travel to find high adventure destinations. From climbing to the top of magnificent mountains to hiking through tropical rainforests, there are many unforgettable and spectacular excursions to choose from.
Adventure is something that many people miss in their lives. It gives you the sense of vitality and happiness that sharpens our senses and helps put life in perspective.
