"Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt." -- John Muir
John Muir, one of our nation's greatest naturalists, knew well the importance of connecting to our surroundings, taking to the mountains and meandering her great offerings with wonder.
With June and the summer sun well situated in the sky, we are called to the trails of the Napa Valley once again. Hiking, in all its forms, is one way to embrace the importance of physical activity while enjoying awe-inspiring scenery.
It's more than just a walk in the woods. Hiking connects us with nature and people. For seniors specifically, research shows 30% are more likely to continue exercising when hiking in a group. Moreover, hiking reduces feelings of loneliness and is linked to a 25% reduction in depression rates.
Health benefits of hiking differ from gym routines and walking. The process of navigating uneven terrain challenges core muscles as well as joints in the feet and ankles improving balance as we age. Additionally, there are cardiovascular benefits while hiking due to the more strenuous nature of a hike versus walking, especially hikes with a slight incline.
The benefits don't end there! Hiking is an opportunity to break out of a boring exercise routine. There is a natural world to enjoy on a hike, from creeks to trees to birds and other manner of wildlife and vegetation (watch out for the poison oak!). For seniors, especially, hiking is an opportunity to increase neural activity through new experiences. Research shows constant exposure to new stimuli is an important element to maintaining cognitive health as we age.
Nature Sacred points to a long-term study where participants starting at age 70 reported fewer new complaints at age 77 related to musculoskeletal pain, sleep problems, incontinence, and decline in ability to do normal daily activities of daily living compared to those who did not get daily exercise.
Amanda Cole, program director at Rianda House, offers additional benefits.
"Hikes/exercise can improve blood levels, boost bone density, build muscles in calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, hips, therefore improving balance and coordination," Cole said. "Enhance your endurance, burn calories and manage your weight. Hiking can be joint-friendly and can keep folks with arthritis active and limber."
Starting in June, Rianda House is featuring opportunities to travel these paths. We promise. There will be dirt.