The fact that a relaxed walk through the forest helps to cleanse the body and spirit probably does not need to be emphasized. If science is to be believed, hiking also has a positive effect on our brain.
In what ways does hiking affect the brain?
Eliminates negative thoughts
People often struggle with obsessive thoughts that can lead to depression and anxiety. Research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was able to prove that spending time in nature helps to eliminate such thoughts.
The researchers focused on the comparison between urban and natural environments. Test subjects who walked in nature felt less anxious than their 'city colleagues'. At the same time, it was possible to detect a decrease in the level of neural activity in their prefrontal cortex.
Based on the findings, the scientists concluded that as the degree of urbanization increases, the risk of developing depression and other mental illnesses also increases.
It encourages creative problem solving
A psychologist Ruth Ann Atchley and David L. Strayer during their research, they found that living in harmony with nature contributes to effective problem solving.
They conducted an experiment that asked the participants to spend 4 days in nature without technological aids. During this time, they had to constantly solve complex problems. It turned out that the level of efficiency of the brain rose by about 50 %.
Technology constantly demands our attention, so we often have problems with concentration in its presence. If you can't come up with a good idea, we recommend that you retreat to nature.
Improves symptoms of hyperactivity in children
Children who show signs of the increasingly common ADHD syndrome have difficulty controlling behavior and attention.
A psychologist Frances E Kuo and Andrea Faber Taylor came to the conclusion that spending time in nature helps to improve the symptoms of this disease. The same is true for all people who have problems maintaining attention and impulsive behavior.
It serves as a great workout
Physical activity is key to well-being. Hiking serves as excellent recreation, as we burn between 400 and 700 calories during a one-hour walk.
Researchers from University of British Columbia proved that aerobic exercise in women over 70 years of age increases the volume of the hippocampal formation - the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory. At the same time, it also helps reduce stress and anxiety levels, boost self-confidence and release endorphins.
