3 Health & Beauty Benefits of Hiking
As you know, getting regular exercise can do wonders for your mind, body, and beauty.
Today, I’d like to share with you one of my favorite forms of exercise that can involve the entire family: hiking.
Here are 3 reasons why I suggest that you consider adding hiking to your regular health and beauty routine:
#1: Hiking can clear your mind and rejuvenate your soul (and family bonds)
In the beauty of nature, hiking promotes peace and quiet away from the day-to-day hustle and bustle.
Hiking allows you to relax, breathe in fresh air, and enjoy beautiful scenery along the way.
In addition, hiking is a great family activity! Getting outside and enjoying nature together, without distractions and electronic devices, may be just what your family needs to bond and reconnect.
#2: Hiking can keep you strong and healthy
Hiking can use every muscle in your body, helping to keep you limber and strong as you age.
Hiking also:
- Improves your cardiovascular and respiratory health
- Increases your muscular fitness and bone health
- Increases quality of sleep
- Reduces depression
Oh, and did I mention active hiking burns up to 370 calories an hour!
#3: Hiking can make your skin glow
By getting your heart pumping and your muscles moving, hiking increases your circulation and lymph drainage.
Increased circulation helps flush toxins out of your body, while getting more oxygen to every cell in your body.
In turn, your body is able to function more efficiently, your skin is able to regenerate faster and this shows on your skin as a healthy glow.
If you’re looking for any of the benefits I just described above, I suggest you grab your family and/or friend(s), turn off your mobile devices, and get out on the trails and take a hike!
Map My Hike is a great app for you to consider for your hiking needs. It allows you to map your route, track your progress, share your routes and experiences with friends (as well as see their routes and comments), and much more!
Here are the top 5 hiking trails around Pittsburgh (all within 3 hours of the city):
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
Gerard Hiking Trail
The North Country Trail – Allegheny National Forest
McConnells Mill Slippery Rock Gorge Trail
Raccoon Creek State Park Hiking Trails
For a list (and more info) of the Top 10 Hiking Trails around Pittsburgh, click here.