Mental Hiking : The Mind and Body Connection
This article describes the concept of mental hiking and the deeper connection between your mind and body.
Disclosure: I am not a licensed medical professional. Consult a licensed professional if you have any questions or concerns about your health.
What is Mental Hiking?
Mental hiking is the concept of challenging your brain to work toward a goal. Hiking is an unpredictable, uncomfortable, and challenging experience that tests your ability to overcome obstacles. To get to the top of the mountain, you must endure each challenge along the trail.
Physical Health Benefits
Hiking is a great way to move your body and strengthen your muscles. Hiking is an intense cardiovascular exercise that challenges your body in almost every aspect. This exercise increases your bone density and heart health, creating a stronger body overall. The main muscles used during a hike are the glutes, hamstrings, quads, calves, and hip flexors.
Mental Health Benefits
Spending time in nature benefits your mental health in various ways. Hiking is proven to lower blood pressure, stress levels, and anxiety. Hiking releases chemicals in your brain that are typically referred to as “happy hormones”, including serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine.
The Connection
There is a direct correlation between hiking and the improvement of your overall well-being. I refer to this concept as “mental hiking”. On a hike, not only are you strengthening your body, but also strengthening your mind. A large percentage of the battle is mental. If you have a strong mindset, you can push yourself to accomplish things you never thought could be possible. When you finally reach the peak, you develop a sense of achievement that allows you to work toward larger goals.
The Meaning Behind Sole Peaks
This blog is titled Sole Peaks to establish a connection between hiking and developing a strong mindset. The use of your “sole” and your “soul” combine to create a strong identity. The “peaks” in life can be tangible or intangible. There is a mental climb to become the best version of yourself, and the only person that can get you to the summit is you. Experiencing a hike and spending time in nature will open your mind to the possibilities of what you can accomplish as an individual.
Click the link below to watch a Ted Talk video by Robert Bruce that elaborates on the topic of mental hiking.
Click the link below to read more about the mental and physical benefits of hiking.
