The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Hiking

David Raminfard is the president and CEO of KasLen Textiles in Vernon, California, a distributor of fine textiles, including draperies and upholstery. In his leisure time, David Raminfard enjoys outdoor activities, such as hiking. 

Offering a number of benefits, hiking regularly can positively impact both health and mood. Hiking is a cardiovascular workout that increases the heart rate and decreases the risk of heart disease. 

Building strength in both core and leg muscles, hiking can also help lower blood pressure and control blood sugar levels. In addition, researchers have linked the mood-boosting power of hiking to lower levels of stress and decreased anxiety, which makes hiking a holistic workout.

A study at Stanford University found that individuals who spent 90 minutes outside in nature - often hiking - had lower levels of the chemicals in the brain that are linked to depression. Consequently, going for a walk on a hiking trail can have a measurably positive impact on mental health.

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