Take A Hike!

Barley Cove , West Cork

Over the next several weeks we will explore “Hiking” as a wonderful activity. There will always be a hike or two on the agenda for our retreats. ​As we enter the summer months we have the perfect weather for hiking and it is an activity that everyone can enjoy no matter their fitness level. Today lets explore why I think hiking is a great activity for the whole family. 

1.  For for me, hiking is the perfect way to get out of my head and into my body. This provides clarity especially when I’m stressed, overwhelmed or overthinking. 
2   It helps me distance myself from my phone and social media and all the pressure to “keep up with the Jones” and release the stress and pressure from it.
3   It is the perfect time to slow down. I take deep breaths as I walk and inhale fresh air and exhale any negative stuff going on. 
4.  There is of course a physical benefit to hiking. It keeps me fit and adventurous. There is nothing that compares to the feeling of accomplishment after a particularly strenuous or challenging hike. These challenging hikes make you stronger and more resilient. 
5   You get to see the magnificence and ever changing beauty of nature as you explore new trails and revisit old ones. Some of you may have heard me say it's like walking in an art gallery every day I hike as no two days are the same.
6    It allows me to be more mindful of what surrounds me. You can see the subtle beauty in the details of a tree root growing out of a crack in a rock or the simple beauty of a tiny flower beside a dead tree. 
7   You can hike alone or with like minded friends. It is a great way to catch up with old friends or to quietly contemplate. There truly is something for everyone in hiking.
What are your reasons for hiking?