The Mental Benefits of Hiking

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that the outdoors is my happy place. Life can feel overwhelming at times - juggling work, raising a toddler, the mental load of family life, (trying to find time to keep my blog up and running!) and all those daily pressures. But the moment I step outside and see the mountains, it’s like a weight lifts off my shoulders. Hiking is so much more than just walking through nature; it’s my therapy, my escape, and my way of reconnecting with myself.

Throughout the winter, whilst struggling with morning sickness, I havn’t been able to go on as many hikes as I would like - and I’m really starting to feel the difference. So writing this blog is also a reminder to myself to get outside more - it doesn’t have to be an epic hike up a mighty mountain. A local walk will be just as beneficial!

If you’ve ever felt stressed, anxious, or like you just need a breather, I encourage you to grab your boots and head outside. Let me share ten ways hiking can work wonders for your mental health, just as it has for mine….

1. Stress? What Stress?

Stress seems to creep in everywhere, doesn’t it? But when I’m walking through a forest or climbing a hill, surrounded by nothing but birdsong and rustling leaves, it melts away. Hiking naturally lowers cortisol (that pesky stress hormone) and boosts endorphins - the feel-good hormones that remind you life isn’t so bad after all. Trust me, a few hours on the hills beats any stress-relief app.

2. A Natural Mood Booster

Some days, I wake up feeling a bit low, but a hike always turns things around. There’s something about the steady rhythm of walking, breathing in fresh air, and soaking in the scenery that instantly lifts my spirits. It’s like nature gives you a big, warm hug, reminding you that joy can be found in the simplest of things. The endorphins released during hiking act as natural mood elevators, leaving you feeling happier and more content.

3. Finding Calm Amidst Anxiety

For those grappling with anxiety or depression, hiking can be a game-changer. The physical exertion involved in hiking boosts neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation. Moreover, the tranquil settings of nature provide a welcome distraction from negative thought patterns, offering a mental respite.

4. Cognitive Function Improvement

If you’ve ever found yourself mentally foggy, nature is the perfect remedy. Being away from the constant buzz of notifications and the hum of urban life allows my mind to declutter. By the time I finish a walk, I feel sharper, more focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

5. Sparking Creativity

The mountains are where I get my best ideas - whether it’s for work, My Mountains and Me, or simply solving life’s little puzzles. There’s something about the way nature engages your senses that opens up creative pathways. And if I’m ever stuck in a rut, a walk is often the key to fresh inspiration.

6. Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thoughts

We all have days when it feels like we’re stuck in a loop of negative thinking. One of the great mental benefits of hiking is its ability to interrupt that cycle. Focusing on the trail ahead, the crunch of leaves underfoot, or the view from a summit shifts my mind away from worries and into the present moment. It’s grounding, in every sense of the word.

7. Sleep Like a Baby

There’s no better remedy for a restless night than a good hike. After hours of fresh air and exercise, my body feels ready to rest, and my mind is calmer. Even Lily, my toddler, sleeps much better (she’s always been a terrible sleeper!) after we’ve been exploring the outdoors - it’s a win for both of us!

The physical exertion of hiking can improve sleep patterns, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep. Additionally, exposure to natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, further enhancing sleep quality.

8. Building Confidence, One Step at a Time

Reaching the summit of a mountain peak or finishing a challenging trail gives me such a sense of accomplishment. Especially when I’m doing it with a toddler-in-tow! Those little wins remind me that I’m stronger than I think, and they carry over into other parts of my life. Each hike builds confidence, one step at a time.

9. Connecting with Others

While solo hikes can be magical, there’s something special about sharing the experience with friends or family. Whether it’s chatting along the way or pausing together to admire a view, those shared moments create bonds that last long after the walk is over.

A fascinating study from the University of Virginia explored how our perception of challenges can change depending on our support. College students were taken to a hill, given a weighted backpack, and asked to estimate its steepness. Those who stood alone perceived the hill as steeper and more daunting, while those who prepared to face it with a companion or a sense of determination found it less intimidating - a reminder that life’s obstacles often feel more manageable with the right attitude or someone by your side.

10. Strengthening Resilience

Life throws its fair share of curveballs, but hiking has taught me how to adapt and persevere. Whether it’s tackling a rocky path or dealing with unexpected weather, those challenges help build resilience. And honestly, if I can face a surprise downpour in the middle of nowhere, I can handle just about anything!

This resilience often translates to everyday life, helping you navigate life's ups and downs with greater ease.