As a fitness nutrition specialist, I discovered right away that if a person's diet is lacking, little can be done to improve health outcomes. This makes nutrition the cornerstone of health and longevity, with fitness as a vital component.
By our very design, we are beings of nature. Yet, we are also fundamentally nomadic. According to Gregory A. Miller, Ph.D., president of the American Hiking Society, "Being in nature is ingrained in our DNA, and we sometimes forget that" (Robinson, 2013).
Every time I find my way to a trail or am immersed by all things unfettered, I am reminded of this truth.
There are many benefits to hiking, including a boost in feel-good hormones such as serotonin and dopamine. In fact, a study conducted by Stanford Research found that hiking has been proven to lower rates of depression.
Incorporating fitness into one's daily health regime decreases the risk of developing heart disease. It also improves blood sugar and blood pressure levels. In addition, hiking and being out in nature can boost a sense of connection to a higher truth, reminding us that everything will get accomplished even when we slow down.
Some other benefits of hiking include-
· Cost- It's much more cost-effective to find a nearby trail than spend a monthly fee for a gym membership
· Reduced exposure to household toxins- Being indoors is actually more toxic than outside (Medical Associates, n.d.)
· Improved quality of life- By having a stronger connection to nature, we have a stronger one with ourselves, and all other areas of our life seem to improve too
Having a nutrition coach can help an individual meet their fitness and nutrition goals.
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Blessings
References
Mana Medical Associates. (2021). Indoor Air vs. Outdoor Air. Retrieved from https://www.mana.md/indoor-air-vs-outdoor-air/
Jordan, Bob. (2015). Stanford researchers find mental health prescription: Nature. Retrieved from https://news.stanford.edu/2015/06/30/hiking-mental-health-063015/