After being cooped up in your house for days on end due to the global pandemic and resultant social distancing (which we all should be doing), we could all do with some fresh air. And while there’s still some time before you’ll be able to, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared!

Starting your day with a short hike in the woods is an excellent way to get your blood pumping; it pulls you away from all the screens you’re constantly surrounded by, and allows you to take in the (real) world around you.

The uncertainty and the stress caused by the current global crisis is sure to take a toll on your mental and emotional health, which is why we recommend you make hiking a regular habit in the aftermath.

Check out the mental and emotional health benefits of hiking here:

1. It Clears Your Mind

When was the last time you had zero thoughts floating around in your head? Alright, it may not be possible to have no thoughts floating around in your mind at all, but you can clear your mind so it stops thinking about unnecessary things that are bringing you down and causing stress.

Hiking has a way of silencing noise. Much like meditation, hiking allows you to take a quick break from your daily stressors while enjoying the morning breeze.

It’s just what you need to organize your thoughts and think clearly.

2. It Gives Your Brain a Boost

Finding it difficult to do your daily tasks? Your brain may be overworked. Research shows that by immersing yourself in nature and spending less time behind a screen, you can get your creative juices flowing and increase productivity.

Studies also show that people who hike regularly have better memory than those who don’t spend much time outdoors.

Surrounding yourself with nature also boosts cognitive functions and improves concentration and memory.

3. It Gives You New Perspective

Being alone with our thoughts in the outdoors often leads to a change of perspective, especially when we’ve been obsessing over all that is wrong in our lives.

Hiking outside forces you to be in the moment. You may be hiking in a familiar area, but being in nature requires to be alert at all times. During your hikes, you’ll be able to put aside negative thoughts that are causing you to stress out.

All ready for your hike after all of this blows over? Make sure you’re carrying the right hiking gear with you.

Light Hiking Gear offers lightweight backpacks for all kinds of hikers. Our award-winning collection of affordable daypacks, StrongLites, and UltraLites; each one was designed to support hikers on trails.

Check out our backpacks online and place your order today.