“For the purity of the air on Chocorua, in a land of maple” -Ezra Pound 🏔🥾 👟 🍁
Wearing the CloudAces by On Running - excellent for rocky terrain. 👟
This weekend I went hiking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In the above photo I am just about at the summit of Mt. Chocorua, a 3,490 ft easternmost peak of the Sandwich Range. From here and on the actual summit you have a beautiful 360 degree view of surrounding lakes, forests, and other mountains.
Not only was the hike physically satisfying (we covered about 9 miles that day) and the views inspiring, the act of being in nature all day really boosted my mental health as well. I looked this up and sure enough, there is science to explain why you feel just so darn good after a great hike.
For instance, did you know that:
spending time outdoors can increase your attention span and creativity as much as 50%
hiking (even though the pace can be slow at times) is great cardio exercise and improves blood pressure, lowers the risk of heart disease, and decreases cholesterol
the uneven terrain of hiking gives your body a dynamic workout and engages and strengthens muscles you wouldn’t use otherwise
and finally, hiking releases brain-derived neutrotrophic factor (BDNF) which acts to stimulate neurogenesis - basically your brain gets a great workout, as well!
Hopefully you can find yourself some elevation to ascend this summer and experience the many benefits of the climb!
Hat is by Headsweats - lightweight, wicks sweat off face and hair, machine washable 👌🏽
Stay well, FitFooters!
:) Betsy