Why Start Hiking?
Posted: Friday, September 25, 2009
by Amanda Kiefer
http://www.moosejaw.com/
So you've heard people raving about hikes they went on. You know someone who has gone all over, hiked every mountain, followed every trail, and you are wondering just what is so great about this activity? Why did Ansell Adams find such inspiration when he was climbing in the mountains? What is it about going outside and enjoying the wilderness that makes enthusiasts fall in love with it?
Enjoy the quiet. Once you get out in the wilderness a bit, you begin to realize just how quiet it is out there. There is no sound of traffic, no one yelling at the car before them. There are no fire truck sounds or car alarms. There are no heaters or air conditioners making all sorts of sound. The quiet you find in the wilderness is extremely peaceful and relaxing. You begin to notice the conversations of birds, and the sound of leaves in the wind. These simple experiences help you recognize the beauty and innocence of life. Erich Fromm described this phenomenon as biophelia or a love for life and all things living. He argued that somewhere in our genetic code, we are designed to want to see nature, and observe living systems.
Escape the grind. John Muir wrote "The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." This statement shows the value and clarity offered by time spent outside. The wilderness offers an out from the stress of life. It is a fun break from the daily grind, it frees you from the tyranny of the city and the constancy of artificial stimuli that is today's living. Being in the wilderness is the best opportunity for quiet thinking and introspection.
Show yourself that you can. Traveling into nature, outside the view of others, allows you to test yourself. Bringing nothing with you but your North Face Backpack and some water and experiencing the woods on your own two feet teaches you just what you are made of. When you realize that nature is utterly indifferent to your presence, you notice that the only thing keeping you going is your resolve. This experience teaches you that you can accomplish anything.
Great exercise. Hiking is excellent exercise, and it is relatively easy on your body. Getting out each day and hiking makes a big difference in keeping a healthy body weight and fighting off diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Bond with friends. Exploring the wilderness puts you and your friends in a unique environment which will help you to bond and make your friendships grow stronger. These friendships that are forged over experiences in the woods will help you feel that you all can work together and achieve difficult things.
Hiking offers these benefits and more. Spending time outdoors and appreciating nature is guaranteed to bring you fun memories.
Happiness and health, what more could anyone ask for? So get out there and enjoy the land. John Muir said it best when he said, "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you...while cares will drop off like autumn leaves."
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