Why Hike?
Ever found yourself pondering the idea of hiking but feeling a bit lost on where to start? Maybe you're in a bustling city surrounded by concrete, or perhaps the scenic spots are a bit scarce in your neck of the woods.
So, what's the deal with hiking? What exactly is a hike anyway? Do you need mountains and lush green trails to claim the title of a hiker? I used to think so, until I dipped my toes into the world of hiking.
Hiking, my friend, is as simple as moving your body—usually in the form of a leisurely walk—surrounded by nature. Yep, it's that easy. When you find yourself outside, strolling amidst nature's wonders, congratulations, you're officially hiking!
And hey, if you're navigating city streets instead of forest trails, fear not—welcome to the world of urban hiking. Grab an online map or just hit the sidewalks; the city is your playground.
In Colorado, our urban hikes in Denver involve exploring outdoor art installations and checking out colossal hand-painted art walls.
"But why bother with hiking?" you ask. "What's the big deal?"
Shinrin-Yoko
The Japanese have this nifty term, shinrin-yoko, which adds a dash of excitement to the whole outdoorsy affair. Translated as "forest bathing," it's basically the art of getting outside and taking a stroll among the trees.
And here's where it gets interesting.
Did you know that spending just 20 minutes a day outdoors in nature can work wonders?
It's not just a claim; it's backed by science. Research shows that forest bathing, or shinrin-yoko, has a multitude of benefits. It's like a magic potion for your well-being!
Zen in the Woods: Stress Be Gone!
Discover how a stroll among the trees can decrease cortisol (that pesky stress hormone), kicking it to the curb. Sure, it’s hard to get outside, especially when winter is raging and its so dang cold! Don’t let winter (or summer heat) dictate your mood. Sure as it rains on a 14er, once you get outside, your mood will take a turn to the better.
RELATED: Crack the Code to Cold: Colorado Winter Hiking Tips
Sleeping Beauty Mode: Nature's Sandman Hack
I don’t know about you but a solid night’s sleep is a luxury. Yet without fail, the days I’m out hiking, moving my body in nature, I come home rested and refreshed.
One study found people 65 and older slept better when out in nature.
Another study from CU Boulder found that melatonin increased with time spent in nature. To get full results, aim for 2 hours a week in nature. It could be as little as a 20 minute walk outdoors.
RELATED: Beginners Hiking Tips
Mindful Meanders: A Walkaway from the Blues
Did you know that living in a city is associated with increased levels of mental illness, like depression?
Well dang it, that feels defeating already! In the science world, they use this fancy term “rumination.” In a nutshell, it’s when individuals fixate on negative aspects of themselves. Research shows that walking in nature for just 90 minutes turns that rumination on its head! A simple walk through a park reduces negative self talk!
Immune Boost: Forest’s Own Defense Mechanism
Imagine the forest as a magical place that helps our bodies stay strong and healthy!
In the forest, trees release special things called phytoncides. These are like superhero molecules that fight off germs. When we walk among the trees, we breathe in these superhero molecules, and they make our immune system stronger.
It's like getting a big hug from nature!
The forest also makes us feel relaxed and happy, which is good for our bodies too. So, when we spend time in the forest, it's like teaming up with nature to keep ourselves strong and ready to face anything!
How to start Forest Bathing re: Hiking
Now that we've cracked the code to the forest bathing magic, let's cozy up to a laid-back guide on how to jump into this nature-filled journey.
Commitment is Key
Make a promise to yourself and start small. Just like my weekly hiking commitment, setting achievable goals builds momentum. My son's running journey? It began with a monthly goal for a cause and ended with an impressive 11-mile high-elevation trail run. It's all about starting small and surprising yourself along the way.
COHH TIP! Spend 5 minutes a month with your calendar. Mark at least 2 dates for hikes or substantial time outdoors. Or add in 20 minutes a day of time outside.
Plan Your Path
Hiking is a personal journey, so it's not a "have to" but a "get to" experience. Plan your hikes—decide where, what gear you need, and how long you'll spend on the trail. Planning ahead shuts down those pesky excuses and ensures your hiking goals become a reality.
Also, plan your wardrobe. In winter months, I keep a bin by the back door with all my gear - hat, gloves, traction, coats, headlamp. In summer months, I fill the bin with sunscreen and hats.
COHH TIP! Create an excuse free zone. Having all your gear in one spot eliminates the “where the heck is?” problem.
RELATED: Hiking Checklist: What you need to bring on a hike in Colorado
Embrace Winter Wonders
Despite the chill, winter hiking is a gift to yourself. Overcoming obstacles like the cold or fear of slipping on ice becomes part of the adventure. With the immune-boosting benefits of hiking, winter might just be the perfect time to step outdoors.
It’s super easy to get sidelined by the weather. Consider joining a hiking group or getting a hiking buddy. Meeting up with people is one of the best ways to hold yourself accountable to getting outdoors!
Bundle Up
Dressing warmly is crucial, especially in winter. As someone who dislikes the cold, investing in a heated vest transformed my outdoor experience. Braving 20-degree weather with toasty warmth shifts both my attitude and my body.
I recently started wearing a heated vest. GAME CHANGER! Suffering through the cold is no fun. Putting on this vest has me warm from the moment I step out the door!
RELATED: Winter Adventure Heated Gear - Is it Worth the Hype?
Hydration Heroics
Even if you don't feel thirsty, staying hydrated is paramount, especially in Colorado's high-altitude hikes. Water bladders or reservoirs are great to have as well for small sips throughout your hike.
Don’t forget to bring electrolytes. Too much of anything is a not a good thing - so don’t over salt or over hydrate.
COHH TIP! In winter months, pack a hydro flask of hot water. While snowshoeing Colorado trails or skiing the slopes is hard work, any time you are resting, the cold attacks.
Weather the Storm - Stay DrY
Equip yourself with a good jacket, waterproof boots, and wool socks. Outdoor gear consignment shops, both local and online, offer budget-friendly options. Remember, this is about having fun in nature, not strutting the catwalk. Stay dry, stay happy!
In the wild world of hiking and forest bathing, we've cracked the code to nature's superhero secrets! Why hike? In a nutshell, hiking makes you healthy, from the inside out. From the Japanese magic of shinrin-yoko to the immune-boosting powers of phytoncides, hit the trail and embrace the great outdoors.
Starting small is the key—set achievable goals and commit to regular outdoor time. Planning your path no matter the weather, bundling up in cold months, and staying hydrated always are the superhero steps for a successful adventure.
Whether you're city strolling or trail blazing, nature's playground awaits—grab your cape, and let the outdoor fun begin!
Happy hiking!