I love to hike. I've always loved to hike. I think you should become a hiker like I am.
When I was growing up my aunt used to take me on hikes all over. Sometimes we went up north to the mountains and sometimes it was a local trail.
My dad took me hiking as well. I was very young when I hiked my first mountain in New Hampshire.
Those are great memories from my childhood.
Sadly there are no mountains where I live now but that doesn't mean that I can't hike.
Quite the contrary actually. There is a lot to see and experience and plenty of reasons to get out and do it.
Recently I went for a hike in a place called Sunnyhill Restoration Area. It's a long levee trail. Not much change in scenery but it was beautiful the entire way. The trail was grass so I didn't have to worry about mud, sand or rocks. The sun was out. It was a great day.
I spend about 90 minutes hiking and I am so glad that I did. It made me happy and more fit.
Isn't that what life is all about? Don't we all want to feel a little better on the inside and the outside?
The benefits of hiking are many.
I listened to some podcasts on my hike. It was an opportunity to learn and grow as a person.
The steady hike kept my heart rate up but not too high. This is a the perfect scenario for muscle recovery and fat reduction (if you have fat to lose).
The uneven grassy surface facilitated strengthening of my ankles.
The sun nourished my skin.
The beauty of the trail nourished my soul.
If you don't get out on the local trails and got for a hike at least once per week then you are missing out.
Get out and enjoy your local trails!
How do you find a trail?
It's pretty simple really. Just look!
A quick Google search for "state parks" or "recreation areas" or "preserves" or "hiking trails" will help you get started. With today's technology there really is no excuse. Not knowing where to go isn't an acceptable excuse in 2022.
Pro tip. Get the Google Maps app on your phone. You can visually search your local area for trails. Look for the brown lines. You can also search "hiking areas" and local trails will pop up.
There really is no reason for you not to get out and go for a hike TODAY.
Make sure you know know the specific rules of the area that you are going. Sometimes dogs are cool and sometimes they aren't allowed. Make sure you bring water, a snack, proper foot attire and clothing as well.
You aren't hiking the Appalachian Trail here. Start with a 30 minute walk. Keep it simple and add more time next time.
Make sure you have a map with you! Sign log books when you need to and tell someone where you are going.
Last thing. Take some pictures. Tag yourself and bring a friend!
I often talk about changing the world starting with you. This is another opportunity. Find a great trail and share your excitement with anyone and everyone. You never know when you just might inspire someone to get out and change theirs lives.
Maybe your life will change for the better. It can't hurt.
Get out and enjoy the day. You are worth it!
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