November 17th is Take a Hike Day!
There is no better time to celebrate the brisk beauty that is late autumn than on Take a Hike Day. On November 17th, as the last of the deep red and orange leaves finally relinquish their grasp on their branches and fall crunchily to the forest floor, it’s time to take a hike and take advantage of all Mother Nature has to offer. Not only is hiking a great way to discover local scenery, there are also many health benefits – both physical and psychological – linked to hiking.
The jury is still out on the exact origin of Take a Hike Day; we would like to think the creator is too busy hiking amid the wonders of trails and wildlife to clarify its exact inception for us.
Depending on the difficulty of the hiking trail you choose to take on November 17th, and the weight of your backpack, an hour of hiking can easily burn 500 calories, which means you can enjoy a delicious hamburger and French fries from your local watering hole guilt-free on the way home!
The usually grassy terrain of hiking trails is known to be easier on joints than the hard concrete of an indoor track, reducing your risk of a stress injury while exercising.
Hiking has been linked to decreasing the symptoms of depression. Removing yourself from the pressures of a busy life and the constant distractions produced by technology will allow you to reconnect with yourself, resulting in increased moods and a sense of well-being.
Whether you choose to spend your time in self-reflection, or take the family out for an adventure in the forest, don’t forget to take a hike on this November 17th and enjoy the great outdoors! Stay safe out there!
