Hiking
If you enjoy spending time in green spaces and getting in your steps, why not combine the two and take a hike? Current research shows that spending time in green spaces has health benefits like being able to recover from stress faster and improved mental health. Then if you add walking to your outdoor time, you’re getting in physical movements and all the perks exercise offers, says Curtis Carman, director of education at The Parklands of Floyds Fork.
To get started, Curtis says it’s a good idea to first research the type of hike you’d most enjoy. “Decide if what you’re up for is a short walk or a few miles,” Curtis says. To help you schedule your walk, it’s good to know the average person hikes one mile in around 25-30 minutes. Curtis also says it’s important to bring water and to let somebody know where you’re planning to hike. “If you’re hiking alone, let people know where you’re going and what time you’re planning on being back,” says Curtis.
When it comes to hiking as a hobby, Curtis loves being able to spend time with friends in an unplugged setting. “It’s nice being out in the woods because people feel less guarded,” Curtis begins, “it’s easier to connect while we’re out in nature. And when he chooses to hike alone, he finds comfort in listening to the wind blow and just de-stressing. So, grab your sense of adventure and try hiking as a new healthy hobby.
By Tonilyn Hornung
P.S. You may also like Living Large in a Small Space
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