The Vital Importance of Getting Outside During Hard Times: A Hiker's Guide to Mental Resilience

Have you ever seen the meme, “I’m tired of living through historical events?” Yeah…we understand. We’re living it, and truth be had, it’s exhausting. In times of political uncertainty and ongoing tragedy, many of us find ourselves glued to our phones, constantly refreshing and “doom-scrolling,” until the wee hours of the morning. Staying informed is important, but complete obsession into our screens and the news can take a toll on our mental health. As hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, we have a powerful tool at our disposal to combat stress and maintain perspective: nature itself. This post explores the crucial importance of getting outside during hard times, and how it can benefit our mental health and well-being. 

The Science Behind Nature's Healing Power

Recent scientific studies have shed light on why spending time in nature, particularly through activities like hiking, can be so beneficial during stressful periods:

1. Stress Reduction: A 2019 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that just 20-30 minutes in nature can lower cortisol levels by up to 16%. Cortisol, often called the "stress hormone," plays a key role in our body's stress response.

2. Mood Enhancement: Research published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2010 showed that "green exercise" - physical activity in natural environments - improves both self-esteem and mood more effectively than indoor workouts. So, consider moving your workout from the gym every once in a while, if possible. 

3. Cognitive Benefits: A 2012 study in PLOS ONE revealed that immersion in nature can enhance cognitive function and creativity. This can be particularly valuable when we need to think clearly about complex social and political issues.

4. Emotional Resilience: A 2020 study in the journal Emotion found that taking regular "awe walks" in nature significantly boosts positive emotions and reduces feelings of distress over time.

How Hiking Can Help During Turbulent Times

Given these scientific findings, hiking emerges as an ideal activity for maintaining mental health during challenging periods. Here's how:

1. Physical Distance from Stressors: Hiking literally removes us from the environments associated with stress - our homes, offices, and urban spaces filled with reminders of current events.

2. Mindfulness and Present-Moment Focus: The act of hiking requires attention to your surroundings and physical sensations, naturally pulling your mind away from abstract worries about the future.

3. Perspective Shift: Spending time in vast natural spaces can remind us of our place in the larger world, helping to contextualize current events within a broader, more cosmic perspective.

4. Physical Exercise: Hiking provides excellent cardiovascular exercise, which is known to release endorphins and improve overall mood.

5. Social Connection: While solo hikes can be meditative, hiking with friends or joining a hiking group can provide valuable social support during difficult times.

Practical Tips for Using Nature as a Coping Mechanism

1. Set a Nature Schedule: Commit to regular outdoor time, even if it's just a short walk in a local park.

2. Unplug While Outside: Leave your phone on airplane mode or, better yet, in your car. Use this time to disconnect from the digital world.

3. Practice Mindful Observation: Pay close attention to the details of your environment - the texture of tree bark, the sound of a stream, the feeling of wind on your skin.

4. Breathe Deeply: Use your time outdoors to practice deep breathing exercises, which can further reduce stress and anxiety.

5. Keep a Nature Journal: Record your observations, feelings, and any insights gained during your outdoor time.

6. Challenge Yourself: Set hiking goals to give yourself a sense of accomplishment and progress during uncertain times.

The Bigger Picture: Mental Health and the Outdoors 

While hiking and spending time in nature won't solve the world's problems, it can provide us with the mental resilience and clarity needed to engage with these issues more effectively. By taking care of our own mental health, we become better equipped to contribute positively to our communities and engage in constructive civic participation.

Moreover, regular exposure to nature often increases our appreciation for the environment, potentially motivating us to take action on environmental issues - a positive way to channel energy during turbulent times.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of getting outside during hard times is paramount. Whether it's a challenging hike in the mountains or a gentle stroll through a city park, nature offers a scientifically-proven antidote to the stress and anxiety that so often fill our daily lives. By making outdoor time a possibility, we invest in our mental health, gain valuable perspective, and cultivate the resilience needed to navigate difficult periods.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, remember that the trail is always there, offering not just an escape, but a path to greater well-being and clearer thinking. Lace up your hiking boots, pull on your Go There Pants, and let nature work its magic.