Hiking in Mpumalanga is one of the best ways to unwind, forget about your day to day stress and come back to yourself, especially after times of trouble. There are many healthy reasons why you should take the time to stop and smell the roses while hiking, and why you should make time to get outdoors more often.
Studies show that taking the time to enjoy the smaller things in life can actually have a great effect on your happiness. This is why it’s important to not rush through your hiking weekend but to rather meander along the trails.
The Scientific Reasons why you should get Outdoors
Good for the brain, good for the body, good for the soul, hiking can become your happy place for a number of reasons:
- It’ll boost your energy
Sitting all day, relying on coffee or sleeping too much, can actually have a negative effect on your energy. Time spent outdoors, and hiking, in particular, can boost your energy and make you feel more alive and more energised. The feel good effects of hiking can last a long time, and the more often you get out there, the better for your energy.
- It’s easier to exercise outdoors
Gyms certainly have their appeal to the busy modern person, but nothing beats the outdoors. It could be the surroundings, it could be the fresh air, or it could be the change of scenery, but when you exercise outdoors there is a definite psychological benefit to be enjoyed.
- Natural Sunlight does wonders
Those who spend time out in high-intensity sunlight experience less pain, as well as less stress. This means that people who get out in the sun more often tend to take less pain medication. Maximum time in the sun also means better sleep.
- It can restore your focus
We’re not made to spend endless hours focusing on one thing. Everyone needs a mental break in order to improve concentration and restore their focus. Hiking is a great way to do this, but a walk in a green park can do great things in the short term.
- Improved immunity
Your immune system can be bumped and worn down when you have prolonged periods of stress. You can improve your immune system by taking supplements but nothing quite beats going outdoors and absorbing the energy that nature provides. Time outdoors can increase your white blood cells and help aid your body in fighting germs.
Walking amongst the trees and plants, and taking in the fresh air, can improve your health and your mood. We have a number of hiking trails in Mpumalanga for you to enjoy.
