I wasn’t always a fan of the great outdoors; in fact, I used to hate camping. But ever since I started hiking and camping many years ago, I’ve noticed a drastic change in my mental and physical well-being. Whether we like it or not, there’s no doubt that outdoor activities like camping and hiking have tremendous benefits for our health.
I know — for all the nature haters out there, you’re thinking of the humidity, trekking through the woods, vicious mosquitos, and of course, where to shower?! But even just a short hike (or walk) on a nature-y trail can give you a boost of energy and a dose of happiness!
Just close your eyes and imagine for a second: you’re surrounded by towering trees, the scent of earth and pine fills your nostrils, and the warmth of the sun kisses your skin. In this moment, there’s no rush, no deadlines — just you and the boundless beauty of nature.
Whether you’re camping in the woods for a few days, hiking through the mountains, or just taking a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood trail, being outdoors and specifically in nature is sure to improve your health. And we’re here to tell you about all those benefits.
Reduces Stress
If you’ve ever been hiking, how do you feel immediately after (after the exhaustion, of course)? And for those who love camping, how do you feel when you return from a trip spent basking in nature? I’m willing to bet that most of you probably responded with words like “refreshed,” “re-energized,” or “re-charged.”
Nature has a remarkable ability to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) allowing our minds to relax and unwind. Studies have shown that when we spend time in green spaces, feelings of anxiety and stress can be significantly reduced. Activities like hiking and camping naturally make us feel good because they trigger the release of endorphins, which are our body’s natural painkillers and “good vibes” brain chemicals. Basically, being in nature makes us happier!
When you’re surrounded by the lush green forest, the sounds of birds chirping, and the river flowing (bonus points if you’re by a waterfall), exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It’s best when you plan these hiking and camping trips with friends! I love being able to grill or cook outdoors after a morning hike, watch people go fishing (notice how I said “watch”), and if possible, kayak or swim in the river with friends; these are the spring and summer days we look forward to most!
Improves Mood
Along with reducing stress and anxiety, being in the great outdoors can improve our mood considerably. Exposure to sunlight and fresh air triggers the release of serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being. The ultimate mood booster!
Every now and then, I like to disconnect and get myself into nature, whether that’s going for a hike or a weekend camping trip. And every time, I feel like a completely new person coming back home. I know hiking isn’t for everyone, but there are so many different types of hikes, from super easy trails to strenuous climbs, there is truly something out there for everyone! I get it; when you’re in the moment, on the hike, struggling to breathe, it’s hard to think about how amazing this activity is. But immediately after, your mind and body will thank you!
Boosts Immune System
Immersing ourselves in nature strengthens our immune system and overall health. We all know that exercise is crucial to maintain our health and prevent illnesses, but exercising outdoors in the sun and around greenery takes this to another level. Research suggests that spending time outdoors reduces blood pressure and stress levels while increasing levels of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting off infections and diseases.
When we’re hiking, camping, or engaging in any outdoor activities, our breathing takes in fresh air while we sweat, removing waste through the skin. These processes help with blood circulation, reduction of blood sugar levels, and a stronger defense against sickness.
Have you ever noticed that older Asian people in countries like South Korea and Japan are significantly healthier? That’s because they’re surrounded by nature and have a culturally deep connection to Mother Nature. From the fresh air that we breathe to the Vitamin D we’re soaking in from the sunshine, outdoor activities, particularly in nature, greatly boost our immune system and physical health!
Boosts Cognitive Function
When I learned how hiking can improve my cognitive function, it made me fall in love with the activity even more. I was more motivated to try challenging trails and difficult mountain terrains, knowing it would increase my brain neuroplasticity. At the basic level, hiking is an activity that increases blood flow to the brain and reduces inflammation. But what makes hiking better than other exercises? It’s the mentally challenging part of it. Hiking increases serotonin levels, which can improve memory and learning.
Studies have shown that working out in a cognitively demanding environment requires us to constantly engage our spatial navigation, focus and attention, and ability to think and adjust quickly. Engaging in outdoor activities challenges our brains in new ways, improving cognitive function and problem-solving skills, and increasing neuroplasticity.
Think about it — when you’re hiking in the mountains, what’s the trail like? Probably not that smooth. There are rocks, random elevation, tree branches, and many more things in the way. It takes much focus and attention to navigate around these things so that you don’t trip and fall. Sometimes during my hikes, there is a section with a bunch of large rocks, and I have to think about where to step. If there is a stream or river, I have to think about which path to take, which rock to step on. All of these things work together during our hike to improve our cognitive function!
Enhances Creativity
Did you know that our brains tend to be more creative at night? Now, imagine camping under the night sky with bright stars shining above you and nothing but the sound of nature. Being in nature stimulates our senses and encourages a state of mindfulness, which can foster creativity and innovation. Many renowned artists, writers, and musicians have credited nature walks or camping trips as sources of inspiration for their work.
It’s clear that camping has been linked to improved concentration and attention span. The peacefulness of nature allows the brain to recharge and refocus, making it easier to concentrate on creative tasks afterward. When we’re not stressed or worried, when our bodies are feeling more relaxed and at peace, when we’ve got feel-good chemicals flowing, we’re more likely to be creative in our thoughts and creations.
Improves Sleep Quality
In our previous articles, we discussed how exercise can improve sleep quality. But hiking and outdoor activities can increase sleep quality even further. Exposure to natural light and physical activity during the day helps regulate our circadian rhythms, leading to deeper and more restorative sleep at night. That’s because being outdoors (and away from screens and blue-light devices) resets our circadian rhythm. Being in the sun and soaking in that Vitamin D can also help to control our wake-sleep cycle.
If you remember, temperature also plays an essential role in sleep — after a day’s hike and sweating out all those toxins, your internal temperature will decrease, easing you into a more relaxing sleep. And finally, goodbye stress. Because hiking and being in nature helps to reduce stress levels, this will contribute to a better night’s sleep.
Increases Sense of Connection and Wellbeing
Finally, we all want to get back to our roots at some point and reconnect with nature. Being in nature allows us to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the natural world, fostering a sense of connection with the world around us. This inevitably leads to greater feelings of well-being and fulfillment. Whether it’s marveling at a breathtaking view or feeling the earth beneath our feet, spending time outdoors reminds us of our place in the universe and can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget that Mother Nature is always at play. We go about our daily lives disregarding the natural benefits around us, often neglecting the thing that gives us life every single day; nature. When we take a moment to think outside ourselves and feel our deeper connection to the natural world around us, we not only improve our health and wellbeing but we learn to love and care for this world that gives us life.
