Four Reasons To Hit The Nature Trails

Everyone knows that hiking is good for our physical state. Like most cardio exercises, hiking reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even some cancers. But a nice, long trek also does wonders for your mind, your relationships, and your quality of life. Keep reading to find out how hiking elevates your way of living! 

Hiking calms and clears the mind.

Most everyone walks away from a hike feeling both accomplished and clear-minded, a simple combination that can remedy even the most complicated of problems. Since the speed of life these days seems to crowd our brains with too much information, we can use the clarity and positive affirmation we receive from hiking to balance it all out…and sometimes even get the inspiration flowing. Did you know Ludwig Van Beethoven found walking essential to his creative process? 

Hiking helps us live in the moment.  

In today’s world of chaos and constant stimulation, it can be difficult to find some quiet time to think. But in nature on the other hand, the birds serenade us, the fresh air electrifies us, the trees ground us, and the deep blue of the sky inspires us, awakening our senses and connecting us to the land we call home. 

Hiking boosts your mood. 

Physical activity induces the release of endorphins which energize the spirit and make you feel a whole lot happier. The best part about walking is that no matter what kind of shape you’re in, you can reap all of a hike’s physical benefits even if you keep it on the shorter side. As we breathe deeply in the wilderness, it’s amazing how quickly our little daily problems seem to fall away. 

Hiking connects us to others. 

There’s no better way to get to know someone than to walk and talk. With nothing but the wind in between you, little can distract you from good old fashioned conversation. Grab a buddy, hit the trails, and be surprised how much you learn about each other. 

Stephens Valley’s development team works closely with the Federal Park System and other committed friends and stakeholders of the Natchez Trace Parkway to implement long-term strategies that minimize the viewshed of any Stephens Valley rooftops from the parkway itself. To learn more about how our community protects the natural beauty of the Natchez Trace, please visit our FAQ page here!